It may seem obvious at first: Of course the executives in the c-suite need to have extensive experience managing digital businesses for the eCommerce team to be successful. After all, we’ve all seen that the digital business requires a unique set of skills that can only be learned by doing – whether that’s implementing complex technologies, running digital marketing campaigns, or optimizing site merchandising.
But we’ve also certainly seen CEOs join companies without any experience in that industry and lead the business to profitability. It’s certainly possible that great leadership and management skills overcome a lack of hands-on digital experience. Isn’t it possible that great leaders know how to surround themselves with managers who can handle the day-to-day decisions while executing on a companywide vision?
Join Andy and Brian as they put Tom Jones, Senior Director, Customer Value at commercetools, on the hot seat to see if he can defend the myth that company leaders need to have digital experience to ensure that their eCommerce team is successful.