The Management

Meet the managers at Barretts and find out their favourite items sold in the shop.

Jill Barrett | Owner & Director

Experience?
I first worked in Barretts during my Summer Holiday at the age of 18, when my Mum and Dad were in charge.  I then pursued a career at BT, and following a break to have Vicky and Annie, I worked as a Teaching Assistant at Kyson School in Woodbridge.  I rejoined Barretts when my Uncle Ray and Aunt Paddy retired in 2009.

Favourite thing in Barretts and why?
I’d love to take the Driftwood Lamp home (from my own Linens and Gifts Department).  I know just where it would it would look lovely!

Paul Vale | Manager & Director

Experience?
I have had a wide range of retail experience, particularly with home furnishings.  I started my career in 1972 with the Stowmarket Co-operative Society as a van boy/junior.  After receiving a good grounding on all aspects of home appliances and furnishings (hardware, electrical, giftware, beds, carpets and upholstery) I moved on to other companies such as Cowells, Time Furnishings, and Wallace Kings, to further progress my and understand the retail trade.
After being being interviewed by Jack Barrett (Jill’s father), I joined Barretts some 20 years ago to run the bed department and later the upholstery department.  I help to run the store and enjoy going from department to department where required and ensuring Barretts continues to offer that unique aspect.

Favourite thing in Barretts and why?
When I was asked about my favourite item in the shop, I instantly thought of the manufacturer Delias, which will go on display in December.  As Captain James T. Kirk once famously said “Space, the final frontier”.  If space and storage is your quest, then Delias offer an amazingly versatile range of bedroom furniture in a variety of finishes and sizes.  This select bedroom furniture range is remarkable quality and value for money and, what’s more, we assemble them for you in situ free of charge..

Louis Dawson | Assistant Manager

Experience?
I came to Barretts in July 1994 and joined as a sales assistant. I then progressed to become Beds and Bedroom Furniture Department Manager before managing the upholstery and cabinet departments.  I am now privileged to be Assistant Manager, doing my best to help the store Directors.

Favourite thing in Barretts and why?
The Hypnos Silk Pillow Top bed – it’s so comfortable!

Glynis Buckles | Finance Manager

Experience?
I started in the Accounts Department of Barretts in 2001 then migrated part time into the Carpets Department.  In addition to my company financial duties, I am responsible for window displays and selling and estimating carpets and rugs.  I go to rug warehouses to hand pick stock which I enjoy very much, along with the specialist Rug Evening we put on every year in early December.

Favourite thing in Barretts and why?
Rugs!  Our hand knotted rug designs are fascinating, especially where the pattern changes when the maker stops and re-starts.  I can imagine sitting beside the knotter.

Michael Grist | Marketing Manager

Experience?
After 23 years in BT I couldn’t wait to get out and join my lovely fiance Jill (Barrett) in the family business.  That was back in January 2010, and I now feel very much at home in Barretts.  After all the high pressure and stress at BT, this feels like a breath of fresh air!  I started in beds, and after being thoroughly trained in the “Barretts way” by Manager Paul Vale, I progressed into dining room furniture, sofas and recliners.  I picked up the marketing role for the shop, focussing on creating a clear brand and logo – and a new website! We started a bespoke upholstery department in December 2010, mainly as a result of customer demand, and that also keeps me busy.

Favourite thing in Barretts and why?
The multi-coloured 5 stem Danalight Floor Lamp.  It’s bright, modern, funky, and so cheerful!!