Meet Rachel

Meet Rachel Dean – Shop Manager at Chapter Two bookshop (Chesham) 

With a background in NHS operations and environmental consultancy for an NPO – new Shop Manager Rachel Dean brings a wealth of experience to her role at Chapter Two. Having also recently completed a part-time BSc in Social Science, Rachel now oversees operations, policies, and a team of around 50 active volunteers at the Chesham-based bookshop.  

Starting in September 2025, Rachel is already relishing the blend of meeting so many wonderful new people and the added opportunity for creativity this role entails. “I’ve really enjoyed being a bit creative and doing our windows and working on all of our events,” she explained. This role is finally allowing her to “scratch that itch for creativity” that previous jobs hadn’t fully offered. 

Rachel has also been struck by the scale and outreach of The Hospice, noting that, “I didn’t quite realise the number of shops there were and exactly all that goes on to support The Hospice locally.” Rachel is continually impressed by the dedication of the amazing team of volunteers behind her and the fact that customers will actively drop by the storeroom or desk to tell staff how much they enjoy the shop. 

Through its vibrant events, dedicated staff, and strong educational outreach, Rachel views Chapter Two as an integral part of Chesham’s community fabric. Her new role not only showcases her own operational expertise but also highlights how the bookshop is a meaningful platform for connection, creativity, and purpose.