Have you ever wondered what makes Fox Wardrobes such a great place to work?

We grab Fox Wardrobes’ founder Chief Fun Fox, Chris Volpe, just between measures and meditation to get all the Foxy facts on the man behind the myth.

Chris, can you tell us a little bit about where you grew up?

I grew up in Ocean Shores just outside of Byron Bay and then relocated back to Sydney in Year 10 with my two brothers as they were already living in Sydney at the time.

When you’re not living and breathing Fox Wardrobes, how do you like to spend your spare time?

I love to have a daily dip in the ocean usually at Shelly beach or down at Manly, it really sets me up for the challenges ahead. I also enjoy snorkelling, scuba diving, yoga and meditation. I’m passionate about anything to do with health and wellbeing. I actually enjoy simplicity, just hanging out with my wife, Leah. We love to travel together and see the world. It’s all about experiences for me.

What is really important to you in life?

Love, family and my wife Leah. Learning and personal growth are also incredibly important to me, I spend a lot of time reading and absorbing because I thrive on taking on brand new information which helps me grow and learn.

Who would you say are the biggest influences in your life so far?

Other than my wife, I look to varied sources for motivational advice and counsel. Personalities such as Richard Branson, Tony Robbins, Napolean Hill and Oprah inspire me to reach further and higher.

I hear you have a life philosophy around taking decisions?

Absolutely! You miss 100% of the shots you never take. The decisions we make are incredibly powerful in terms of moving us forwards – even if they don’t work out. Failing is far better than not trying at all and quite often what we might view as a hurdle is actually the path we need to take.

What’s the best book you have enjoyed recently?

I’ve just finished Joe Dispenza’s ‘Becoming Supernatural’. It’s an amazing book about what your mind can achieve through regular meditation – and the incredible science-backed benefits that will follow.

Not one for just lying back on the sun lounger and enjoying pure unadulterated fiction then?

Does Harry Potter count?

I was about to ask if there is anything personally you would like to improve on or learn – but it feels like this part of you never rests!

I love who I am right now, but I genuinely feel that expansion is possible for everyone. I have a continual thirst to evolve and improve myself.

What about doing something silly like jumping out of a plane, or cage-diving with sharks?

Actually, I do have a bucket list! India and Machu Picchu are definitely on my travel hit list. Other than that probably my most dangerous ambition is to learn to fly a helicopter.

If you were a coffee, what would you be?

Definitely a cappuccino. I continually froth over with joy and enthusiasm and I’ve always got something sweet to add as a topping!

Apparently Zorro, your Boston Terrier, has been complaining to the team that he spends more time in the office than you. Can you comment on this?

No comment!

Let’s talk Fox Wardrobes. Rumour has it, you’re actually an accountant. Explain.

I studied Business Administration at University and then went on to study accountancy. I was working with one of my brothers whilst running my own business called ‘Chillazy’ (comfortable outdoor seating). Meanwhile, my other brother wanted some help with his custom cabinetry business so we joined forces. A further opportunity arose when it became apparent customers were dissatisfied with the level of quality and product in the market, and Fox Wardrobes was born.

Where did the branding ‘Fox’ come from?

It’s the English translation of our family name, Volpe.

Clever! How do you see the Fox brand as offering anything different in this space?

With all of our work we have in-house installers as full time employees. They are purely focused on the client and making sure the job is done right. Our sales Foxes are also all in-house and really care about our clients needs – not just closing a deal. In terms of product difference, we use aluminum shelving wraps for stability and longevity, as well as metal drawer sides and only the best board from Polytec and other local suppliers. We also use skilled cabinetmakers that actually take the trouble to clean up after themselves. It’s a definite step up in quality and care.

How do you want your customers to feel after a Foxy experience?

We want to create raving fans. We want customers to feel joy and a sense of excitement after having their new wardrobes installed. We aim to deliver a seamless experience that goes beyond expectation, to continually surprise and delight our clients.

What words would your staff use to describe you?

Friendly, approachable, knowledgeable, passionate and focused. Those would be the polite ones anyway!

How would you describe the Fox company culture?

I see it as like family. It’s more than simply a job. Everyone feels comfortable, hard work is always rewarded and we enjoy just coming in to see each other. At Fox, we are all working towards something bigger than just a wardrobe. We have a vision and we all share it.

What would surprise people to know about working at Fox?

Probably that our installers are full time employees, they care as much as I do.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the personal growth I get from it. I’m passionate about business and about providing an excellent service with a team that can also learn and grow. I love the idea of training the next generation of business owners and cabinet-makers.

Do you have any visionary ideas around the future of wardrobe design?

Loads! I see 3D printed wardrobes in our future, conveyor belts to save on floor space, and augmented reality screens that image our outfit selection so that we don’t have to try the clothes on first. Just tap until the combination works. Imagine the time you could save by seeing upfront how each outfit would look, and not having to pull different clothes on and off!

Where do you see the Fox business in 5 years time?

I see us as a National business with Fox Wardrobes Dens in every state. I see Fox as having a really consistent product with super happy clients. I see team members running different parts of the business, personally fulfilled and challenged – and hopefully continuing to give back to the community in an expanded and ever growing way.

If you weren’t working at Fox, where would you be, who would you be with and what would you be doing?

That’s a tough one. I think I would be meditating on a beach in the Maldives with my wife!

If you were left stranded on a desert island for the rest of your days and you could only take one thing with you, what would it be?

Definitely Leah, my wife.