What it's really like inside Debenhams

How do you come up with fresh marketing ideas?
It's a real team effort - no idea is a bad idea.

What is the main marketing challenge you face?
Our products and brands appeal to such a broad customer base, our biggest challenge is deciding which customers to target, with what product or offer, and when.

What are the perks?
Staff discounts in store as well as the 'Perks at Debenhams' website, which gives us money off products and services such as travel, gyms and hotels.

Does the marketing team socialise out of hours?
On Fridays we'll go for 'one quick drink', which has ended up being the start of many a good night out. 

Are there any downsides?
The fast-paced retail environment means decisions need to be made quickly, cons-tantly keeping us on our toes.

Is there a dress code?
No, working in retail means you get to express yourself through what you wear.  One day you might be in your highest killer heels, the next in your trusted pumps.

What is the company like for training and career progression?
We have a great reputation for developing our people and do our utmost to make sure staff with talent don't slip through the net. We offer a range of training programmes from practical courses to one-to-ones and coaching.

Is there anything our readers might find particularly interesting about the inside of your office?
Our head office is the original Debenhams store and walls are lined with images from our latest brand campaign.

Company facts

• Debenhams' head office is on the 6th Floor, 33 Wigmore Street, London W1U 1QX.
• The retailer employs 26,748 people worldwide, of whom 21 are UK marketers covering brand, tactical, local, loyalty, online and cosmetics.  
• As of April, Debenhams had 153 stores across the UK and the Republic of Ireland; its revenue in 2008 was £1.83bn.
• Last year the company was voted best UK department store by GMTV.
• Rob Templeman is chief executive; Ali Jones is marketing director.