A day in the life: Retail Promotions Manager, Leah Hayden
As part of our A Day in the Life series, we’re shining a light on #ourpeople who make a real difference across our organisation every day. In this edition, we meet Leah Hayden, Retail Promotions Manager at McCabes Pharmacy, whose work plays a key role in delivering quality, efficiency and exceptional customer experiences across our pharmacy network.
Leah shares how she starts her day, what drives her work, and how collaboration supports the success of her team and the wider business. Here’s her story, in her own words.
1. How would you summarise your role in the business?
I work cross‑functionally with multiple departments and contribute to key initiatives, including last year’s implementation of the new EPOS system. I am also involved in an exciting new retail project planned for the coming year. In my role, I am responsible for managing retail promotions and collaborate closely with my procurement team, the marketing, sales department, stores and suppliers to ensure this is achieved in the most effective manner.
2. Before coming to work, what does your morning look like?
I like to get up early, which is a lot easier in the summer months than it is at the moment. I walk my dog Wizz while listening to a podcast and then make a coffee ready to get started for the day.
3. When you arrive to work, how do you kickstart your day?
I always start by writing out my to-do list so I can prioritise my tasks for the day around any meetings I have that day. I start work at 7am most days as I like to get some work ticked off prior to meetings or adhoc tasks that are likely to come up during the day.
4. On your journey home, do you listen to podcasts, music or are you enjoying some peace and quiet? If so, which podcast/song?
I listen to podcasts or audiobooks any time I am in the car, usually some sort of comedy podcast like Off Menu.
5. What’s your favourite aspect of your job?
I spend a lot of time working with other people – either within my own team, or other departments. Our commercial procurement team is filled with experience, and I have learned so much from everyone over the last almost five years. We work very openly together, and everyone is happy to share their viewpoint and give advice.
6. What is one thing you wish you could have told your younger self before embarking on your chosen career path?
Always ask for feedback - your manager and colleagues want you to do well!
7. Can you share one piece of advice for a new starter about to join the business?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and reach out for help. You will learn about the business but also develop relationships with colleagues that will give you great insights into other departments and ways of working.
10. We’re all about being quality-driven! Do you have any personal habits or quirks that help you deliver top-notch work?
I am a list maker; I love a list in work and in my personal life. I work best by making a list of everything to do within a given task or project and find great satisfaction in crossing off a list. For me, it is the best way to ensure everything is done to the highest level.
11. What’s something you’ve worked on that you’re proud to say embodies our commitment to quality?
Recently we have undergone major change within McCabes, alongside taking on an additional 30 pharmacies, we rolled out a new EPOS system to all 110 pharmacies, we implemented a new promotional book and standards guidelines, all whilst continuing to provide the day to day level of care that our patients and customers expect.
Leah’s experience shows how collaboration, curiosity and a commitment to quality help shape the work we do across PHX Ireland. Her role at the heart of our retail promotions highlights the positive impact our people make every day as we continue to deliver for our patients, customers and communities.
Keep an eye out for more insights and stories in our A Day in the Life series.