We provide HR support services to 400 independent retailers across the province as well as for the group itself, so every day is extremely busy, says Sam Davidson. Elaine Smyth reports

THE POST: Group human resources director, Henderson Group

THE POSTHOLDER: Sam Davidson

What does your job entail?

I am responsible for human resources, training and health and safety for the wholesaler/retailer Henderson Group, owners of the SPAR and VIVO franchises in Northern Ireland.

Henderson Group is made up of four indigenous companies - Henderson Wholesale, which supplies around 400 convenience stores, Henderson Retail, the side of the business that owns and operates around 70 convenience store and petrol forecourts, property development firm Henderson Group Property and Henderson Foodservice, which supplies goods to the local hospitality industry.

How did you get into this line of work?

I have always been interested in pursuing a career that involves people.

I originally considered journalism as a career, but having completed a degree in Business Administration I decided that a career in personnel management (as it was known at the time) was something that really motivated and interested me. Looking back, I'm delighted that I made the decision to step into this area - I haven't looked back since and it has opened up a wealth of great opportunities.

Outline your career to date.

After graduating from QUB with a degree in Business Administration and Labour Studies, I did my postgraduate training with NIE across their personnel functions.

I moved to Nortel in 1990, where I stayed for 14 years in progressively senior HR roles in Northern Ireland and south east England. I also spent some time working in human resources consulting with PwC at the end of the 90s.

I then left Nortel in 2004 to take up my current role with Hendersons, although it seems like much less than four years ago!

Tell us about your qualifications/training.

After completing my degree, I qualified as a chartered secretary, which was a great grounding in legal and financial aspects, coupled with some HR studies.

I subsequently went on to study for a postgraduate diploma in personnel management, which I obtained in 1992.

Throughout my career I have been fortunate enough to work for companies, which have supported my own personal development and I have taken training in a wide range of subjects in management skills and professional knowledge.

Did you always want to work in your chosen sector?

As you can see I haven't always worked in the wholesale or retail sector, but I've always wanted to work in an HR role.