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  • What are the future-proof strategies every retailer needs to adopt?

    For Episode 4 of the current season of the FODcast, we were joined by multi-award-winning digital commerce leader, Meriel Neighbour, Head of Global Digital Product Delivery and Transformation at Clarks who shared with us the transformational journey of the iconic footwear brand.

    With extensive experience from her tenure at Ted Baker, the Post Office, Selfridges, and Matches Fashion, Meriel discusses the critical need for Clarks to modernise its technology landscape.

    Discover how the adoption of composable commerce and headless architecture is setting Clarks up for long-term success by providing flexibility and resilience in their digital operations.

    Plus, lots more insight as we talk about the brand’s challenges and triumphs as they progressed through this transformative journey, how they are poised for future growth, and ready to meet the evolving demands of the digital commerce landscape.




    #RetailTech #DigitalTransformation #Clarks #TheFODcast #DigitalCommerce #RetailInnovation

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • In the second of our FODcast ‘shorts’ with CEO, Tim Roedel, we’re excited to bring you another great discussion on the rising trend of fractional hiring with Adrian Wakefield, Co-Founder of The Digital WoW Group.

    With over 35 years of experience in delivering technology and digital transformations, Adrian's journey spans from manufacturing and operations to tech leadership, including his role as CIO of a global tech organisation. Now at the forefront of fractional consulting, Adrian helps businesses leverage high-level expertise on a part-time basis – and was therefore a great guest to feature on the topic.

    🔍 Discussion Highlights:

    Drivers of Fractional Hiring Increase: Learn about the flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and access to specialised skills driving this trend.Organisational Adaptation: Understand how businesses can navigate regulations, adjust roles, and manage operational people matters to integrate fractional leaders.Characteristics of Effective Fractional Leaders: Discover the key traits of successful fractional leaders, including availability, expertise, strategic vision, and strong communication skills.Future Outlook: Explore the long-term benefits of fractional hiring and its potential to become a permanent fixture in the business landscape.


    Tune in now to gain a deeper understanding of fractional hiring and its impact on digital transformation and business strategy.

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



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  • Ever wondered how a gym chain can expand from one country to multiple regions using the power of technology? Join us as we sit down for Episode 3 of Season 6 with Lee Pentecost, experienced Tech Leader and currently Group Head of Architecture at PureGym.

    You’ll hear about Lee’s own career path, from crafting websites in the late '90s to his current role in driving PureGym’s growth and digital transformation. Plus we touch upon the business’ mobile app and how it’s revolutionising member engagement with functionalities like class bookings and gym access, and imagine an ambitious future where it becomes a full-fledged fitness assistant.

    We also consider the future of gym operations with automation and AI…and finding the balance between foundational services and advanced innovations, ensuring PureGym caters to both tech-savvy fitness enthusiasts and the everyday gym-goer.



    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • In the first of our FODcast ‘shorts’ with CEO, Tim Roedel, we’re excited to bring you a great discussion on the rising trend of fractional hiring with highly experienced Digital Leader, and Fractional CTO, Gareth Nutt.


    In our chat with Gareth, we explore the rise of fractional executive leadership in digital transformation projects, and in particular, how mid-market companies are leveraging fractional CTOs, COOs, and CFOs to affordably access top-tier expertise.

    We discuss the shift from monolithic to composable architectures, highlighting the challenges and benefits for businesses - and the skills and talent needed to effectively manage complex systems and successfully leverage new technologies, - without the expense of full-time senior roles.

    🔍 Other Discussion Highlights:

    The rising demand for fractional CTOs and CMOs to navigate complex digital landscapes - and where this trend is headingThe reality behind the composable architecture 'dream' for mid-market companiesThe importance of experienced leadership in managing and optimising new technologiesThe strategic value of fractional hires in making sophisticated digital systems work efficiently

    It's a great discussion, especially if you find yourself at the start of a composable journey within a mid-market business.

    #DigitalTransformation #FractionalLeadership #ComposableArchitecture #TechInnovation #Podcast #Ecommerce #BusinessStrategy

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Episode 2 of Season 6 is here – and features an insightful conversation on all things ‘digital transformation’ with well-known Digital Leader, Stuart Barker - Technology Enablement & Advisory Practice Lead at International business and technology consultancy, Slalom.

    With over 25 years of experience in both retail and consulting roles, there are few people with better experience to share their unique perspectives on how industries can successfully navigate their digital journeys.

    In our chat, Stuart sheds light on how customer expectations have changed, and the importance of considering employee experiences in multi-channel environments. We talk about the need for a strategic approach in implementing technology and driving business changes, as well as the importance of understanding the WHY behind any transformation initiative.

    Don't miss this episode filled with valuable insights, real-life anecdotes, and practical advice on how to ensure your digital transformation journey is set for success from the get-go.

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Welcome to Season 6 of The FODcast by Simply Commerce.

    This season, we're diving deep into three pivotal areas shaping the future of digital commerce: navigating digital transformation, building a successful eCommerce business, and the innovations driving the sector forward.

    In our first episode, we chat with Nathan Lomax, co-founder of Quickfire Digital, European Digital Agency of the Year (2022) – and probably one of the most driven individuals we’ve had the pleasure of speaking to.

    Certainly a household and well-respected name in the wider world of all things Shopify, Nathan shares the good, the bad, and the ugly of launching and scaling an eCommerce business, the impact on home life, and the challenges faced along the way.

    Nathan’s journey from starting a website company after college to co-founding a leading digital agency is inspiring, and in our chat, he talks about the importance of streamlining business processes, making sacrifices, and finding a work-life balance, all while staying passionate and laser-focused on growth and success.

    Whether you're growing a business or launching a new venture, this episode is packed with invaluable insights and strategies to help you succeed .

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • In this final episode of Season 5, our host and Director of Client Engagement, James Hodges looks back on the conversations we've had with our guests from across the sector on the continued topic of Composable.

    This short wrap-up looks at some of the key insights shared with our guests; the challenges faced with real-world examples, mistakes and learnings along the way, and invaluable top tips for those beginning the move to a Composable architecture themselves - as well as a look towards the future.

    A huge thanks to all who have tuned in, downloaded, and watched over the last few weeks - and of course to our guests who have given up their time to talk to us about a topic that shows no sign of abating.

    Michiel Tielemans | Lab DigitalTomas A Krag | NoA IgniteDom Selvon | Apply DigitalGert van Vliet | TouchTribeCraig Smith & Rico Adler | SCAYLERex Bigger | CabiriMikko Mantila | IONAKelly Goetsch | commercetools

    Season SIX....in production and coming soon!

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • We are excited to present the finale of Season 5 of our podcast -and our first repeat guest as we welcome back Kelly Goetsch, Chief Strategy Officer at commercetools.

    With nearly 8 years at commercetools, Kelly transitioned from Chief Product Officer a couple of years ago to his current strategic role – the first of its kind for the cloud-based headless commerce platform.

    With an illustrious career including pivotal roles at ATG and Oracle, where he spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives, including Walmart's global tech implementation, Kelly is undoubtedly a well-known visionary and thought leader within the sector.

    As one of the original co-founders of the MACH Alliance, Kelly is at the forefront of advocating for composable architectures and was therefore an ideal guest to conclude the last 16 episodes around the composable conversation.

    In our chat, Kelly shared invaluable insights on the evolution of composable, highlighting its mainstream adoption and dispelling common myths. His perspective on the changing landscape of buyers, the role of innovation, and the importance of the human aspect and cultural fit of vendors are covered in detail – as well as a candid discussion on the reasons why transformations fail.

    If you’re embarking on a composable journey, or still in the consideration stage, this episode will provide a wealth of information on the positives and pitfalls > > >

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Welcome to Episode 7 of The FOD: The Future Of All Things Digital - the podcast designed to bring you the latest hot topics and trending discussions across the wider world of eCommerce.

    In this penultimate episode of Season 5, we were delighted to welcome seasoned
    digital leader, Mikko Mantila , Co-Founder and CEO of IONA - an award-winning agency who specialises in next-generation eCommerce.

    Founded in 2019, IONA has gone on to experience rapid growth, with studios now in Helsinki, London, and Davao City in The Philippines. And, with a client base that continues to expand across the Nordics and the UK, Mikko has most recently experienced success with notable involvement in the MACH Alliance's C-suite advisory board.

    The episode delves into IONA's background, pioneering the adoption of headless technology, as well as a focus on the evolution of composable strategies over their first 5 years in business.

    In our chat, Mikko reflects on the 'hype' surrounding the concept and the necessity for businesses to consider its implications carefully, emphasising the importance of organisational readiness, cultural alignment, and clear communication of expected benefits and ROI.

    The conversation deep dives into the complexities and realities of embracing composability in today's rapidly evolving business landscape, offering valuable insights and guidance for businesses navigating this transformative journey.

    ENJOY | COMMENT | SHARE

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Seasoned professional Rex Bigger joined the composable conversation for this episode - the sixth of Season 5.

    With over 25 years working in the tech and IT sector following a first-class degree in Astrophysics from UCL, Rex has a vast amount of experience with a varied career that has seen him work as a Senior Java Developer for the likes of MTV and Disney, before moving into Consultancy roles with Philips and e2x Limited where he led projects for high-profile clients including LEGO and Ikea.

    Rex then co-founded specialist headless commerce consultancy, Cabiri in 2017 where he is currently CEO.

    In our chat for the FOD, Rex spotlights the early days of composable (before the term itself even existed) and why the agency chose to join the MACH Alliance in late 2023.

    He also considers future developments within IT more generally, and whether its cyclical nature means a new generation of monoliths could be where we end up as businesses embrace composable, but with a desire for a homogenous interface – it’s another fascinating discussion and viewpoint.

    Please do share within your network and let us know your thoughts!

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Welcome to Episode 5, Season 5 of The FOD: The Future Of All Things Digital - the podcast designed to bring to you the latest hot topics and trending discussions across the wider world of eCommerce.

    Something a bit different for Episode 5 as we welcome TWO guests to join the conversation about Composable – digital and eCommerce experts Craig Smith and Rico Adler from one of the fastest-growing global eCommerce platforms, SCAYLE.

    SCAYLE, a B2C specialist, is certainly making headlines – notably as a named ‘niche player’ in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant™ for Digital Commerce last year, as well as the more recent announcement that Manchester United Football Club has selected them as their official eCommerce platform provider.

    Craig – UK & Ireland Country Manager at SCAYLE has worked in the digital tech industry for over 3 decades across retail brands, retail tech companies, and as strategic advisor to UK retailers at Salesforce.

    Rico meanwhile– Director Solution Consulting at the company, has a similarly impressive background in the sector – joining the German online giant About You as Head of Client Development to build out the SCAYLE platform.

    In our chat for The FOD, we talk in detail about the rising expectations of consumers and, knowing that these will continue to grow as tech develops, remembering their needs specifically whilst businesses and IT teams plough ahead with their digital transformation change programmes.

    We also discuss the most common reasons why composable transformations falter, as well as the future of eCommerce and current trends impacting the market for all stakeholders >>>

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Welcome to Episode 4, Season 5 of The FOD: The Future Of All Things Digital - the podcast designed to bring to you the latest hot topics and trending discussions across the wider world of eCommerce.

    In this fourth episode we were delighted to welcome digital expert, Gert van Vliet to the ongoing Composable conversation.

    Gert has many decades of experience working in and around the digital commerce space; initially as a functional designer and developer, before moving into consultancy across sales, marketing, accountancy and IT functions for a range of businesses and agencies.

    Gert is currently the Managing Director for Netherlands-based digital commerce agency, TouchTribe - part of the MakerStreet Network, one of the country's biggest digital agencies, offering complete end-to-end solutions for its clients.

    In our chat for The FOD, we talk in detail about the number one reason why Composable transformations fail, the importance of culture and the 'human element' of being part of an often very complex project, and the inevitable (and unpredictable) future of the sector as AI-use and implementation start to take hold.

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Welcome to Episode 3, Season 5 of The FOD: The Future Of All Things Digital - the podcast designed to bring to you the latest hot topics and trending discussions across the wider world of eCommerce.

    In this third episode we welcome seasoned technology leader, Dom Selvon, to the ongoing discussion on all things Composable.

    Dom has many decades of experience within the sector, working initially within management consultancy services and technology delivery, and then as a solutions architect and CTO for systems integrators.

    Currently the Global Chief Technology Officer of Apply Digital – a leading digital solutions agency, Dom has spent the best part of the last five years advising clients on the move to composable and has helped some of the world’s most recognised brands including, Moderna, Kraft Heinz, Lululemon, and The Very Group.

    An Executive Board Member of the MACH Alliance, Dom chats to us in detail about the importance of departmental collaboration, ensuring the IT/Tech department is part of the wider delivery team (and not viewed as a ‘supplier’) and why understanding the business vision is critical for all parties who embark on the journey to composable.

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Welcome to Episode 2, Season 5 of The FOD: The Future Of All Things Digital - the podcast designed to bring to you the latest hot topics and trending discussions across the wider world of eCommerce.

    For the second episode of the season, we were delighted to welcome experienced digital leader, Tomas A. Krag to join the discussion on all things Composable.

    Currently Chief Technology Officer at full-service agency NoA Ignite, a full-service agency based in Denmark, Tomas has also held senior positions client-side, with CTO roles at home retailer and manufacturer Hilding Anders and more recently Bang & Olufsen where, in building an eCommerce team from scratch, went on to win multiple awards for front-end design and MACH architecture.

    In our chat with Tomas, he talks openly about the most common mistakes companies make when going down the composable route, as well as reasons why some decide to change paths altogether and move towards a more monolithic architecture >>>

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • We are BACK with a new season of the Simply Commerce podcast, the show that brings you the latest insights into the future of digital commerce.

    After a welcome response to Season 4, episodes in this Season continue to have a primary focus on all things Composable. And, while this isn't a new topic per se, it is undoubtedly still a popular one with many unanswered questions.

    Through conversations with our guests - this time agency leaders - we'll be trying to find the answers.

    Our first episode of Season 5 features an insightful discussion with Michiel Tielemans, MD of Lab Digital, one of the Netherlands' leading composable agencies who have helped a wide range of clients over the last decade including Frasers Group, Mars, Suzuki and Toyota.

    Michiel shares with us the reasons why Composable transformations fail, as well as advice to end customers on how to make sure they are set for success from the get-go.

    It's a fascinating, honest discussion and will no doubt be of use to businesses considering a move away from monolith >>>

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • We are delighted to present to you a BONUS episode for Season 4 of our podcast; The FOD, where we chatted in depth with former Head of Software Development at Wiggle, David Hardiman.

    In our chat with David, we learn more about the retailer’s move to Composable which started in earnest back in 2020 – a move necessitated by an outdated e-commerce infrastructure.

    In this episode we hear about the challenges that the decision to go ‘Composable’ presented and why anyone embarking on that journey or indeed weighing up their options, should (in David’s words) go into it with their eyes wide open, and with a crystal clear vision of what business requirements are; an understanding of what problems they are looking to solve, and an acknowledgement that this is an inherently complex process despite the obvious advantages it can bring.

    It’s a fascinating discussion that offers an honest and balanced view from someone who has lived through the journey – and has come out of the other side with clear insight on the positives …and the pitfalls.

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • In this final episode of Season 4, our host and Director of Client Engagement, James Hodges looks back on the conversations we've had with our guests from across the sector on the hot topic of Composable.

    This short wrap-up looks at some of the key insights shared with our guests; the challenges faced with real-world examples, mistakes and learnings along the way, and invaluable top tips for those beginning the move to a Composable architecture themselves.

    A huge thanks to all who have tuned in, downloaded, and watched over the last few weeks - and of course to our guests who have given up their time to talk to us about a topic that shows no sign of abating.

    Dr. Anjali Subburaj, MACH Ambassador & award-winning technology leaderCraig McLaren - Head Of Digital, MKM Building SuppliesDavid Crawford - former Group CTO, Naked WinesGlen Leakey - former Digital Transformation Director, SpecsaversAlexander Ives - Director of Enterprise Systems, BodenFelix Alonso - Systems Architect, Rapha

    Season FIVE.... coming soon!

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • Here is the SIXTH Episode of Season FOUR of the Simply Commerce podcast, the show that brings you the latest insights into the future of digital commerce.

    Our guest for the latest episode is Felix Alonso, Systems Architect at leading cycling clothing brand, Rapha.

    In our chat for the FOD, Felix talks to us about the move to Composable which started in earnest back in 2019. Nearly 4 years into the process, we hear about the initial challenges faced, as well as the overriding benefits that the business has seen throughout the implementation period.

    This episode gives you, the listener, a glimpse at the future of digital commerce as Felix shares his knowledge of living through the initial proposal and kick-off phases, and the opportunities the transition has presented along the way >>>

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • We're now FIVE episodes into Season FOUR of the Simply Commerce podcast, the show that brings you the latest insights into the future of digital commerce.

    Our guest for the fifth episode is Alexander Ives, Director of Enterprise Systems at leading British clothing brand, Boden.

    In our chat for the FOD, Alex talks to us about the digital transformation of the retailer as it moved from a mail-order catalogue business to an innovative eCommerce brand serving some 1.7 million customers worldwide.

    This episode gives you, the listener, a glimpse at the future of digital commerce as Alex shares his vast knowledge of breaking up a traditional monolithic system, the challenges of the move to a composable architecture, and ultimately how the move has proved vital for a business that wants to remain competitive and a leader in their market >>>

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/



  • We're back again with the next episode in Season FOUR of the Simply Commerce podcast, the show that brings you the latest insights into the future of digital commerce.

    Our guest for the fourth episode is Glen Leakey, former Digital Transformation Director at British multinational optical retail chain, Specsavers.

    Previous to Specsavers, Glen spent over 24 years at Dyson, working across various IT and digital roles including Group IT Director, and latterly, Digital Transformation Director - responsible for the overall transformation and technology execution as the business transformed from B2B to Direct To Consumer.

    In our chat for the FOD, Glen talks to us about the implementation of a composable setup at Specsavers - the overriding benefits, lessons learned along the way, and what the future of composable looks like in driving true business innovation.

    This episode gives you, the listener, a glimpse at the future of digital commerce as Glen shares his vast knowledge and predictions for the future when it comes to composable >>>

    Simply Commerce is the leading supplier of talent into digital commerce across technology, digital marketing, product, sales, and leadership.

    Find our more about our approach and our services within digital commerce recruitment here: https://simply-commerce.co.uk/