S6 | Bonus Episode 2 with Adrian Wakefield from The Digital WoW Group

September 3, 2024

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.

Written by:

Tim Roedel

CEO

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The Move From Monolith to Composable

August 23, 2024

Over the past 5 years we have seen more and more end customers, regardless of sector, look to break down their monolithic platform with composability in mind.

Cost, flexibility, scalability, innovation, and speed are some of the key benefits of doing this however what often goes unspoken are the challenges of undergoing such a transformation and how these can be overcome.

The Simply Commerce podcast, The FOD, has focussed on this exact topic over the last two seasons with insightful conversation that spotlights the experience of guest speakers who are at the top of their game including digital commerce leaders with end customers, agencies, and software vendors who have all been at the very heart of said transformations.

There’s no denying there are many benefits to a part, or fully, de-composed architecture, however, it doesn’t necessarily mean it is the right thing for your business.

First and foremost, it’s vital to understand your business requirements and goals before deciding on the technology you want to proceed with. 

There are currently a handful of options; from part-build/buy components for a bespoke architecture (we’ve been seeing this for some time already) to a fully de-composed eco-system. You also have new platforms being released built on MACH principles as their foundation as well as individual vendors with pre-built connectors to ensure a quick go-to-market timeframe. 

Should you decide on moving forward with a part or fully composable architecture here’s a summary of some of the top tips to ensure a successful implementation and delivery, taken from our guests who have lived, breathed, and worked through them: 

  • Understand your business goals before doing anything. 
  • Speak to industry peers who have undergone the transformation. Ask them, what didn’t go to plan and what would they do differently next time. 
  • Make sure the entire business understands how their roles will be impacted and ensure they are all bought in.  
  • Be meticulous when picking your third parties, delivery partners, and vendors. They are going to be key to your success.  
  • If you aren’t technology mature then consider hiring an experienced Business Analyst and Solution Architect to ensure the business demands are at the forefront.  
  • Start small to see ROI quickly. This will help ensure continued buy-in. Composable transformations aren’t designed to be a big bang, but it is likely business leaders will want to see some short-term gains from the investment. 
  • Ensure communication is a constant throughout the business. Success stories are key to keep everyone engaged but managing expectations will also be vital at key milestones in the project. 

 With 30% of new projects in 2024 having composability in mind, we are already seeing a direct impact on changes to hiring strategies and the search for the right talent and skill set across the whole of the digital commerce ecosystem as businesses review and strengthen their technology teams. Since the start of 2023, we’ve already assisted a number of end customers with a complete review (and re-shape) of their teams as part of their composable journey, including new hires across testing, engineering, leadership, and change management.

We’ve also seen a surge in demand for those working on a contract basis. 

Moving to composable will almost certainly require different skill sets and technical capabilities, so the business must be fully aware of the impact this will have on future needs, as well as on the incumbent team, and the part they will have to play in the transformation.

Even outside of the traditional tech teams, other parts of the business will be impacted too, particularly where new processes or technologies are introduced, so considering the holistic view of your people strategy here is key. Recognising the broader organisational impact beyond just the technical teams is key, as is selecting any external partners – including those best placed to help with the recruitment of new hires.

Ultimately, proactive planning and investment in talent development are essential for businesses to thrive – although that can be said for those moving to Composable, or indeed sticking with their monolithic approach as well.  

What we do know is that companies who have decided to embark on a composable transformation are more likely to require a strong internal technology capability, even if they initially seek external help with delivery or project management.

 

About Simply Commerce 

As a specialist recruiter in the digital commerce space for over a decade, there’s no one better placed to understand the journey you are embarking on, particularly when it comes to sourcing (and securing) the best talent on the market. 

We are perfectly placed to advise on skillset requirements, cost, and availability as well as a go-to-market plan to ensure you’re hiring the best possible professionals all of the time. Skillset cost and availability in particular is something we have found isn’t discussed enough with the vendors, and is of huge value to our existing clients. 

 

For more information and a free consultancy around the availability of resources for your transformation CLICK HERE to start that conversation. 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | Episode 3 with Lee Pentecost from PureGym

August 20, 2024

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.

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | July 2024

August 19, 2024

Finally, it looks as though Summer has arrived. It’s taken until the last week of July but it’s here! And, the positivity continues as Simply Commerce had its best month YTD for new placements.

Following recent surveys and reports from Lloyds Banking Group and Deloitte, it’s clear that both business and consumer confidence are high. We anticipate this optimism will result in new work streams and growth opportunities and, whilst these work streams are likely to remain concentrated in smaller areas where ROI can be quickly tracked, their emergence is nonetheless a positive development. This is especially encouraging for the retail sector, which has been cautious since the start of 2023.

Incoming vacancies across June and July were lower than we would have liked. However, the general sentiment in the market is that more vacancies are available, with companies choosing to exhaust their direct search options before seeking specialist assistance. Notably, there has been a significant uptick in strategic leadership vacancies compared to the previous 12 months, which is a promising sign for the future.

Internally, I’m pleased to confirm the whitepaper we have been working on for the past couple of months, focused on challenges and opportunities within digital commerce, is almost ready for release – you can expect a copy of it in the next week or so. A lot of work has gone into this behind the scenes with multiple surveys taking place at events such as IRX and Retail Tech Show earlier this year, as well as quantitive research we undertook with our network back in Spring.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  • boohoo has launched an online marketplace as it looks to become a ‘one-stop destination for all fashion, beauty, and lifestyle needs’. Customers will be able to shop from 150 brands including Revolution Beauty, L’Oréal Paris, Ray-Ban, Marc Jacobs, and Michael Kors READ MORE
  • IKEA has opened its one-hundredth mobile pick-up point at Tesco, with the Swedish furniture retailer announcing plans to double this number. Almost 40% of Ikea’s UK sales now come from the online channel READ MORE
  • No country in the world has as many internet users shopping online as The Netherlands, according to a new report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). The eCommerce penetration rate is 84% and the market worth nearly €35 billion in 2023 READ MORE
  • Waitrose & Partners has grown its market share for the first time in two years as investments into its food range pay off. Kantar’s supermarket share and inflation update showed that spending at the upmarket grocer edged up 3.3%, helping to lift its market share by 0.1 percentage points to 4.5% READ MORE
  • Amazon Prime Day UK consumer spending across two days saw ‘record highs’ totalling £1.3bn, according to the latest data from Adobe Analytics READ MORE

 

 

Each month we send out the latest industry news and headlines, plus sector insight such as this via our newsletter, The Pulse. This also includes the latest jobs and internal news… click HERE  to subscribe

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | Bonus Episode 1 with Gareth Nutt, Fractional CTO

August 13, 2024

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 interview 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. 

Written by:

Tim Roedel

CEO

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S6 | Episode 2 with Stuart Barker from Slalom

July 30, 2024

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.  

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | June 2024

July 19, 2024

Despite the positivity we saw in Q2, the start of Q3 was somewhat inconsistent when it came to new vacancies coming to market.

Although, whilst delivery, product, and leadership opportunities were a little on the light side, G-T-M and software engineering remains buoyant which is encouraging indeed.

We also know that the pipeline for new hires is robust, with roles anticipated at all levels. There remains a strong appetite for growing teams and launching new projects, even if these projects are expected to be smaller in scale.

Demand within retail is currently concentrated on PIM, OMS, and Data. This is partly due to previous underinvestment in these areas and partly due to significant technological innovations in recent years.

Outside of retail, we believe manufacturing, pharma, and automotive to be industries to watch.

It’s also worth noting that US jobs data showed an unexpected rise in May, indicating a strong recovery and potential growth in the job market. Similarly, UK jobs data suggests that the decline from the pre-COVID spike has bottomed out and stabilised, pointing to a more stable and resilient employment landscape – let’s hope this positive trend continues.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  • Shopify launched its most advanced AI platform, featuring tools like instant personalised product descriptions, combined discounts, and real-time analytics. These updates aim to streamline operations, boost customer engagement, and support business growth READ MORE
  • Gymshark launched “We Do Gym,” a brand platform emphasising its dedication to gym culture. The initiative, set for the next 12 months, aims to distinguish Gymshark from athleisure and sportswear competitors READ MORE
  • Clarks is cutting 150 head office jobs after a £39.8m loss in 2023. The cuts impact their UK and US headquarters, driven by increased demand for lower-priced products and rising costs READ MORE
  • Tesco launches online marketplace, integrating 9,000 third-party products into the online operation. Items span DIY, garden, homeware, pet care, and toys, all fulfilled by suppliers READ MORE
  • Amazon has bolstered its grocery offer by introducing deliveries to all its customers in eligible cities across the UK and launching member pricing. Customers in more than 100 towns and cities nationwide can now receive groceries from its own Fresh stores, Morrisons, Co-op, and Iceland READ MORE

 

 

Each month we send out the latest industry news and headlines, plus sector insight such as this via our newsletter, The Pulse. This also includes the latest jobs and internal news… click HERE  to subscribe

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S6 | Episode 1 with Nathan Lomax from Quickfire Digital

July 10, 2024

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 he has 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.

Links to listen/view the episode are below >>>

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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S5 | Episode 8 with Kelly Goetsch from Commercetools

July 10, 2024

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 ground-breaking 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.

Links to listen/view the episode are below >>>

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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Industry News & Headlines | May 2024

June 19, 2024

Positivity is in the air as May looks to have picked up where April left off – plenty of new vacancies coming through the door as companies accelerate their hiring, particularly within software engineering and sales/partnerships.

Partnership hires seem to be a real growth area for digital commerce-focused vendors and agencies over the past couple of years, and having heard some of the success stories from forming true partnerships between organisations, I can certainly see why.

As new roles go live, it has to be said that we are still experiencing extremely high application numbers for most vacancies.

Whilst the general feeling is that this is a somewhat time-consuming way of recruiting, there are still some good applicants for most roles, you just need to have the bandwidth to sift through the hundreds of CVs (or indeed, engage with a specialist recruiter if you’re not already to take on the heavy lifting in that regard!).

Looking at the market more generally, we had reports just a few weeks ago that the UK had officially come out of recession, with the fasted growth in almost two years.

Whilst we aren’t automatically out of the trenches quite yet, we expect this to have a positive impact on both new work streams being signed off and on the hiring of both permanent and contractor resources.

This was confirmed in a recent survey conducted by the Simply Commerce team, which revealed that 53% of digital commerce leaders believe their companies will be hiring this year.

 

Market Spotlight + Top 5 eCommerce Stories This Month

  •  M&S continues its turnaround with a +58% leap in profit in the first quarter of this year to £672.5 million. Overall sales at the high street giant were up +19.3% to £13billion, with a +5.3% increase in turnover at Clothing & Home READ MORE
  • Temu‘s owner PDD Holdings has posted soaring profits and revenue for the first quarter of this year. The company saw total revenues increase +131% to £9.3bn. Operating profit surged +275% year on year to £2.8bn READ MORE
  • boohoo reported group sales declined 17% YoY to £1.4bn in the year to 29 February, driven by ‘difficult market conditions’. The fashion retailer’s pre-tax losses widened to £159.9m in the period from £90.7m last year, with gross profit falling 16% to £756m READ MORE
  • Amazon announced plans to build a £500m robotic warehouse in Northampton, projected to be fully operational by 2026. The facility, featuring three floors of robotics technology for stowing and picking customer orders, will initially create 1,400 jobs, ranging from engineers to HR, finance and IT staff READ MORE
  • TikTok shop is due to go live in Continental Europe this Summer and has already started inviting merchants to beta-test READ MORE

 

Each month we send out the latest industry news and headlines, plus sector insight such as this via our newsletter, The Pulse. This also includes the latest jobs and internal news… click HERE  to subscribe

 

Written by:

James Hodges

Director of Client Engagement

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