Lesley Walker

Lesley Walker has extensive experience in various leadership roles in the manufacturing, distribution, and retail sectors. Starting in 2005, they worked as a Commercial Manager at Heal's, overseeing retail and warehousing operations. In 2006, they joined ILVA as a Multi-Site Commercial Manager, where they achieved significant sales turnover and played a key role in introducing the brand to the UK market. From 2007 to 2008, Lesley served as a Retail Business and Operations Manager for Dwell UK, responsible for the North West England and Scotland regions.

Lesley then joined Calumet Photographic/Wex Photo Video as a Retail Business and Operations Manager from 2008 to 2018, leading a team and achieving high sales turnover. In 2018, they became the Retail Business and Operations Manager at Sostrene Grene, where they successfully set up UK franchises, managed warehouse operations, and had full P&L responsibility.

From 2019 to 2020, Lesley worked as an Operations/Logistics Manager for 99P Recycling, implementing best practices for global operations and achieving profit margins through effective sourcing and procurement. In 2020, they joined Trendsetter as the UK, Asia & European Operations Manager, leading and developing teams across multiple countries to ensure accuracy, productivity, and efficiency in procurement, supply chain, and logistics.

In 2022, Lesley joined TAKKT Group as the UK & Southern Europe Interim Outbound Manager, focusing on cost reduction and consolidation of the 3PL network. Lesley provided data analysis, performance tracking, and financial reporting. Currently, Lesley is the Head of Operations (COO Designate) at AQUARATE, responsible for manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and installation.

Lesley Walker's education history includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Industrial Design - Printed Textiles from Heriot-Watt University. While at Heriot-Watt University, they also studied Business Studies, Communication Studies, and History of Art. Prior to attending university, Lesley attended Marple Ridge High School, where they studied English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Geography, Biology, and Humanities. After completing high school, Lesley furthered their education at Stockport College of Technology, where they obtained an HND in Surface Pattern Design / Printed Textiles.

In addition to their formal education, Lesley has also obtained several certifications. Some of these certifications include Facebook and LinkedIn for business from One Manchester in 2019, Sales and Marketing from One Manchester in 2019, Fire warden and extinguisher training from Manchester Fire Training in 2018, Leader/Coach management training from Taramis - Inspiring People in 2018, and Professional development and conflict management training from Corporate Coach Group in 2018. Lesley also has certifications in Time Management, Achieving sales through service, Conflict handling, and Customer care, all obtained from SkillsGen in various years.