Meet the Team: Dan, Retail Trading Manager

This month’s ‘Meet the Team’ profile features Daniel Bligh, our Retail Trading Manager, who oversees all seven of our busy charity shops across Norfolk!

We asked Dan some ‘quick-fire’ interview questions to find out more about why he wanted to work for the RSPCA, and what he gets up to when he’s not moving stock around the county and supporting our shop managers:

Why did you want to work for the RSPCA?

It was a combination of my love of Animals and Charity Retail.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Making a difference, From the hard work that goes into making the money, to then seeing how it is spent and the good that it does.

What pets do you own?

I have a Dachshund, 8 Guinea Pigs, and some tropical fish. 

If you could own another animal, what would it be and why?

I would love a mini highland cow! They are the cutest things I have ever seen!

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

If you’ve watched Virgin River then you’ll know what I mean – a little wooden cabin by the river, (I think it’s in Vancouver).

What’s your favourite dish?

Anything Italian, Carbonara / Lasagne or a Calzone.

What one and only book would you take to a desert Island?

It would have to be “The Smoke Jumper” by Nicholas Evans.

If you could only ever listen to one song again, what would it be?

Sweet Home Alabama.

What are you most proud of?

Sounds Cheesy, but it has to be my Kids.

Who inspires you and why?

David Attenborough – A true legend and inspiration for us all to want to do better for the planet and everything on it.

Do you have any hidden talents?

I’ve always been pretty good at Football or that I can juggle, I love to sing too but my family wouldn’t say it’s a talent of mine!

What’s your favourite way to spend a weekend?

Time with the Family, A nice long dog walk, some nice food and to watch some football.

Favourite funny thing your pet does?

Playing with his toy Christmas Pudding that he got for his first Christmas, (he’s now 8).

If you could learn any skill or master a hobby overnight, what would it be?  

I think it would have to be playing the Guitar.

What’s a quote or saying that resonates with you?

Those who dare to fail miserably can achieve greatly.

If you could live in any period of history, past, present or future – what would you choose?

The 70’s for the music, the style and the opportunities.

What’s the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

I spent a month in Australia, I camped in the outback, dived into waterfalls and visited Steve Irwin’s Crocodile park.

On a typical day at work, we’d find you…

I love data so I am always looking into opportunities based on facts, I’m constantly spinning many plates from organising staff cover and holidays, staff recruitment, Administration, forward planning, and fighting metaphorical fires that can affect income. You will also find me in the shops looking at the fine details and opportunities and most importantly supporting the amazing shop staff to generate the money we need.  

________________

Fancy joining Dan and the rest of our brilliant retail team?

We’re always on the lookout for like-minded, animal-crazy volunteers across our charity shops! Find out more and apply to volunteer with us here.