Our Team
Who are we?
We are passionate about enabling individual growth, and opt for a hands-on, flexible approach that allows each consultant to work effectively within their field.
We strive to support a vast array of businesses, and that requires a team like ours.
The dogs help too….
Tristan Kemp
Managing Director
What is their professional background?
Tristan worked his way up through the visual merchandising, and subsequently space planning ranks at B&Q. In 2014, he saw an opportunity to provide an expert resource in the retail market (at the time, this was just him and his laptop). Having onboarded significant retailers, the company has grown from strength to strength under his management, and he now manages teams in three locations across the UK.
Do they have a specialty?
Tristan manages our process integration and consultants. He believes passionately in a positive working environment, and enjoys a forward-thinking approach to office life!
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Tristan has always had a soft spot for garden centres, the variation of their ranges and the chaos this can sometimes bring to a project!
What is life like outside of OSP?
Tristan has spent years racing boats, and is an accomplished Yacht Racer. Further to this, he has been lucky enough to kitesurf all over the world, and often spends weekends on the water with his wife and their dog Nelson.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Spending as much time in or on the water as he does already, breathing under water would be Tristans superpower of choice.
OSP Core Team
Sam Hodgson
Director of Operations
What is their professional background?
Sam brings with him two decades of experience in retail. Having worked his way up through the ranks of a merchandising company, from team leader to project manager, he moved on to Category Visual Merchandising roles, and subsequently chosen as one of eight people to develop a new planogramming and ranging team that serviced the entire company. Four years ago, he joined us at OSP at its development, and is a key member of the team.
Do they have a specialty?
A true all-rounder, and an asset to OSP, Sam runs our company operations, as well as remaining hands-on with the Micro and Macro teams.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Sam enjoys developing people, both within OSP and externally. He gets a kick out of helping others, and is always on hand for big ideas!
What is life like outside of OSP?
Our resident creative, Sam is big into his photography, having owned a successful wedding photography business previous to working with OSP. He has a wife and a brand new baby girl.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Sam already has a superpower, and that’s Planogramming. Suits us!
Shaun Brown
Chief Technical Officer
What is their professional background?
As well as boasting an impressive technical background, Shaun has worked in retail for twelve years. First at Boots, Shaun moved on to head up Space Planning for Thorntons, and more recently set up a new Space Planning function with the Royal Voluntary Service.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Shaun is our leading PowerBI expert, and has managed the development of our bespoke analytical products.
What is life like outside of OSP?
As a semi-professional organist and pianist, Shaun loves to spend his time making music. He is also a Scout and Beaver leader, enjoying the great outdoors of Wales with his wife and four young children!
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
A Harry Potter fan, Shaun wishes he could have Hermione Granger’s time turner: a multi-faceted professional, this would allow him to fit in everything he wants to do, and still spend quality time with the family!
Andrew Higgs
IT Director
What is their professional background?
After a career in the Royal Signals, Andrew joined Nationwide marketing team prior to launching his own advertising agency in 1989. Tri-Direct grew into a £50m turnover business, with offices all over the UK. Overseeing the companies IT capabilities, the business became valued for its data and analytics, which were subsequently extended when it was acquired by a top London firm. As head of IT, Andrews experience has been invaluable in developing our processes
Do they have a specialty?
Tech, tech, and more tech!
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Andrew has developed a universal app that streamlines core processes. He found this rewarding as he had to meet the challenge of familiarising himself with a new industry, and make it work alongside existing methods.
What is life like outside of OSP?
Also a keen sailor, being on the water, his bike or the tennis court keeps Andrew happy.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Andrew would like to instantly implant the knowledge to write Python in a co-workers brain so that they didn’t have to use Excel, because he ‘hates it being used as a pseudo database’.
Bella Cooper
Head of Business Development
What is their professional background?
Bella worked as a professional sailor during her law degree, which led well into a full-time sailing career out of university. Having subsequently worked in asset finance, Bella joins us to re-brand OSP and manage all things marketing, legal, and whatever else we throw her way!
Do they have a specialty?
Bella manages everything and anything to do with strategic partnerships and relishes a good negotiation…
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Working on the update of the OSP brand and the quality our relationships with strategic partners has been a formative time in Bella’s career.
What is life like outside of OSP?
Always busy, Bella races competitively on the Solent, runs and cycles in her free time. Typically based in London, her dog Olive joins her wherever she goes.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Changing the weather. Heavily reliant on the weather for her sport, Bella enjoys lots of wind, and lots of sunshine!
Geoff Carr
Senior Project Manager (Micro Space Planning)
What is their professional background?
Following a degree in Management, Geoff obtained his wine qualifications, working for a National wine retailer before joining B&Q in the buying team. He has subsequently developed an extensive background in retail, working as a retailer, buyer and supplier. Geoff has lead teams, launched new products and designed new retail equipment. His background in the industry lends well to the wide scope in his role with us at OSP.
Do they have a specialty?
As the account lead on our Micro-projects, Geoff enjoys working to simplify complex processes, improving the efficiency of our client solutions, and creating an excellent client experience.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
His most memorable project with OSP was for Wyevale Garden Centres, who came to us to help them set up their upcoming ranges. The head office decided they would use an old mushroom shed on one of their nursery sites as their base! It was cold, smelly and flooded when it rained, but in the sunshine it was lovely, the work he helped with was great, and the team at Wyevale were fantastic. It just goes to show how much the environment adds to the project!
What is life like outside of OSP?
Keeping busy with his family, Geoff enjoys sharing experiences with his wife and two kids. He stays in shape in the gym, and balances this with an expertise in wine! He takes Ted (featured below) for long walks, and loves being outside.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
A fixer, Geoff would like to control Space and Time, to right wrongs and to spend more time in the places that matter.
Michael Bewley
Senior Project Manager (CAD Planning)
What is their professional background?
Previously a store planner at B&Q, Mike has worked on range reviews and full store re-plans. He has worked on a variety of projects for various retailers including One Stop, Co-op, Morrisons and Waitrose. More recently, Mike has worked as Quality Manager within the manufacturing industry, managing a large team. We are delighted to have added Mike to the team and he has already made a positive impact on our current projects.
Do they have a specialty?
Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated an ability to provide excellent customer service. With an inherent attention to detail, we look forward to utilising him in our Micro team.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
A new recruit, Mike is looking forward to his first project with OSP.
What is life like outside of OSP?
Outside of work, Mike enjoys family life with his new-born twins, partner, dog and cat! Working on his motorbike and track day car on the weekends, Mike is a practical man and loves a project.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Mikes superpower would be super-strength and agility: the ability to overcome difficult situations and adapt to tasks in varied ways!
Jennifer Beagent
Senior Project Manager (Visual Merchandising)
What is their professional background?
Jenni has over twenty years in the Retail industry, ranging from high-street to high-end brands across beauty, fashion and home. She is a fantastic addition to the team, adding both to our Space Planning and Visual Merchandising expertise.
Do they have a specialty?
Jenni is excellent at combining her creativity with commerciality for the best customer experience. A passionate merchandiser, the standard of her work reflects her attention to detail, creativity and innovation
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Jenni is currently leading a VM project for a huge outdoor retailer….
What is life like outside of OSP?
Jenni and her husband are based in Sussex and love to explore the local area and wildlife! If the weather is good, Jenni enjoys running, walking and paddleboarding, and in bad weather, she is usually found baking or dressmaking!
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Never able to get enough sleep, Jenni’s superpower would be the ability to fall asleep at will in order to fulfil her sleep-loving quota!
Brita Kirber
Visual Merchandising & Project Lead
What is their professional background?
Brita has an extensive background working primarily in Visual Merchandising for several London-based fashion brands. Subsequently, she has worked as a Micro Space Planning professional. Brita joins us as a multi-talented individual, and we are excited to utilize her skills.
Do they have a specialty?
Brita creates inspiring and beautiful space through visual displays and prides herself in her ability to create compelling story-telling and accurate visuals that align with her clients’ brand guidelines.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
We’ve recently completed a very exciting project for a top-secret VM client. This has been a brilliant experience working closely with her head of department.
What is life like outside of OSP?
An adventurous character, Brita prefers to be by the sea, and keeps herself busy with hobbies! Brita spends her time bouldering, skateboarding, cooking and loves to travel.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Ideally, Brita would transport herself automatically to a beach on a tropical island, or to LA where her twin sister lives!
Taya Mechen
Project Lead
What is their professional background?
Taya studied Interior Design and worked for a female led interior studio during university. After graduating, Taya became a supervisor at Mountain Warehouse – in charge of shop front displays and visual merchandising in store. More recently, Taya spent the last two years working as a macro / micro planner for The Range.
Do they have a specialty?
Taya loves the creative element that comes with merchandising. Whether this be the aesthetics or having to think of creative solutions for any problem!
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Brand new to the team, Taya has already settled in to work on a major account.
What is life like outside of OSP?
Having recently moved up North, Taya mostly spends her weekends exploring that end of the country with her partner! This involves lots of walks around the Lake District and getting to know the local cafes / pubs! Taya also enjoys going on runs and often take part in a local illustration meet ups!
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Taya absolutely loves vintage clothing, so her superpower would probably be time travel – Then she could get a good shopping trip in!
Andrew Ford
Project Lead
What is their professional background?
Andrew is an experienced Store Planner and Head Office retail manager. He has been working in design areas of the retail industry: merchandising, store development, equipment and store planning.
Do they have a specialty?
Store planning! Andrew worked for a large retailer when they where growing their store estate at a rapid pace before moving in to manage a team of store planners, developing new procedures and processes to create an effect team.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Andrew has been instrumental in ensuring our freelance team have smooth transitions moving onto projects.
What is life like outside of OSP?
Exploring Cornwall countryside and beaches. An avid football fan, Andrew travels to watch home games. In his down-time, he goes for long walks with his retriever, Kingsley!
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation, no more travelling!
Roger Simoes
Project Lead
What is their professional background?
With a Diploma in Draughting/CAD Design, and six years experience, Roger is our latest CAD Designer. Working for companies such as Mersen (South Africa), Turnstar Systems (South Africa), IKEA (TCR London), and now with OSP, he is a valuable addition to the Macro team.
Do they have a specialty?
Roger is our 2D & 3D CAD Design wizard!
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
The Mccolls MDaily project has been his favourite so far. He enjoyed the innovation in Space planning and the constant creation of new processes by himself and the rest of the team, in order to achieve a more stream lined and data driven approach to store and system layouts.
What is life like outside of OSP?
Based in London, Roger can mainly be found in the gym, playing football, hanging out with his partner or going to gigs.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Technology Manipulation, As the world moves more into a Technological trajectory, It would be super usefully to have unlimited control over such an important aspect of modern life. Basically Ironman.
Kat Smith
Project Lead
What is their professional background?
Kat has been a part of the retail industry for the duration of her professional career, and as a result possesses a wide variety of skills and experience, as well as a real love for the industry. With previous roles within large retailers across Visual merchandising, planning and coordinating seasonal change, and store-optimisation, we’re delighted to have Kat as part of our Space Planning team.
Do they have a specialty?
Having spent time studying architecture at AUB, Kat is passionate about the affect of physical retail on brand perception, creating customer loyalty and ultimately, driving sales. Additionally, Kat appreciates the importance of data led, commercially-aware decisions in merchandising and visual schemes.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
Our newest addition to OSP, Kat is only just getting stuck in to an exciting project with a key client!
What is life like outside of OSP?
Outside of work, Kat and her partner are kept busy by two young daughters: spending plenty of time outdoors and in the sea! Practical as well as creative, Kat enjoys DIY projects, as well as walking with her Doodle in the forest and reading.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
Power to heal the negative impact of humans on Earth. Some sort of Mother Earth Nature Goddess, or mind control, to convince politicians to take climate change seriously!
Nayaa Owusu
Retail Analyst & Solutions Developer
What is their professional background?
Utilising her Mathematics degree and analytical skills working as an operations analyst and subsequently project analyst, Nayaa’s ability to optimize processes, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements within a business has been crucial in developing strong problem-solving skills. As well as a solid technical background, Nayaa also has hands on experience in Merchandising, making decisions to maximize product visibility and profitability.
Do they have a specialty?
Nayaa has a talent for quantitative analysis, statistical modelling and thrives in a data-driven environment. Anaything that involves digging into data to identify and solve problems.
Most memorable OSP project to work on, and why?
New to the team, Nayaa looks forward to automating some internal processes and working closely with clients on a very exciting product launch.
What is life like outside of OSP?
An active person, Nayaa is often found in the gym, at pilates or at a run club! A keen arsenal fan, she makes sure never to miss a game and also has a passion for travelling, especially to Ghana where Nayaa is originally from.
If they could pick a superpower, what would it be?
The ability to experience something for the first time again. There are countless books, movies and countries Nayaa wishes she could rediscover!
Meet the Dogs...
About me
Name: Nelson
Age: 4 years old
Likes: Sausages
Dislikes: Cheap dog food
Does he have a superpower? If not, what would it be? Fly to catch birds
About me
Name: Olive
Age: 3.5 years old!
Likes: Sleeping
Dislikes: Anything that isn’t sleeping
Does she have a superpower? If not, what would it be? Her one eye means she is very steady and calm for a spaniel!
About me
Name: Kingsley
Age: 1 year old
Likes: Cheese
Dislikes: Anyone leaving!
Does he have a superpower? If not, what would it be? Shredding cardboard…
About me
Name: Ted
Age: 6
Likes: Food, all kinds, especially the kinds he isn’t allowed.
Stuffed Toys – although they don’t stay stuffed very long
Dislikes:
Toys with squeakers in them, he handles them very gently to stop them squeaking
Hedgehogs…. can’t stand the things
Does he have a superpower? If not, what would it be?
He does….selective hearing & strange 360 degree spins when greeting other dogs.
About me
Name: Megan
Age: 13
Likes: Tennis balls! She’s always ready to play and loves a walk, whatever the weather. Loves cheese (helps when it’s time to take a tablet).
Dislikes: Jack Russel’s (Happy to play with other dogs, just not Jack Russel’s). Freshly cut lilies, she’s allergic!
Does she have a superpower? If not, what would it be? Telepathy – She knows when someone is sad/upset and is always there for cuddles. She knows when someone needs help (Ran to my wife’s nans aid after a fall and stood next to her to hold on to and help up)
We are often in search of experienced Space Planners, CAD technicians, or those looking to start in the industry. We believe in the person as much as we do their experience. If you are looking to work within a team like ours, please e-mail careers@osp-retail.co.uk
Find us
Southern Office
Bakers Loft
Quay Street
Lymington
SO41 3AS
UK
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