Jeff Hom, EVP, GMM Kohls Dept Stores Joins RMI Advisory Board, shares vision of Omni Channel and Technology Enabled Future of Retailing
Compiled by Kirthi Kalyanam, L.J. Skaggs Distinguished Professor, Executive Director, Retail Management Institute.
Date: November 04, 2024
Q: Could you provide a brief overview of your background and your journey into the retail industry?
I started my career in retail, right out of my undergraduate studies at the University of Michigan. I joined Target in 1996 and spent over 20 years in multiple roles in Merchandising, Merchandise Planning and Supply Chain. I was able to work in a multitude of areas, from Home Decor, to Electronics,Pharmacy, Household Commodities and Sporting Goods. I also worked in multiple roles on Target's Merchandise Planning Operations team, ultimately overseeing the area when I left in 2017. I was fortunate to lead multiple broad strategic initiatives in my time in MP Ops, such as building out a global workforce with a team in India, as well as leading the development of Target's omnichannel supply chain and fulfillment capabilities. I am currently leading Kohl's Home and Hardlines areas at the General Merchandise Manager, and have enjoyed applying all of my experiences to help my team transform our merchandising and assortment strategies at Kohl's. Retail has been the perfect fit for me, as I have loved the diversity of businesses I have been able to learn about, but also the opportunity to build high performing teams, and help my team achieve their business and professional goals.
Q: What are some of the most significant changes that you have observed in the retail industry in your career?
Without question, the most significant change has been the acceleration of digital technology, both from a digital commerce and fulfillment perspective, but also from a media, marketing, data, analytics & insights standpoint.
Q: What is one of the most significant achievements that you are proud of in your career?
Personally, my most significant achievement is all the relationships I have had the opportunity to build throughout my career, and helping many individuals develop and progress in their careers. From a business standpoint, leading the integration of Target.com with Target Stores by enabling an integrated inventory solution, in support of their Omnichannel supply chain transformation would rise to the top.
Q: What motivated you to join the Retail Studies Institute as a board member?
I was excited to join the Santa Clara Retail Studies board for 3 main reasons: 1.) I enjoy supporting the development of future retail talent, but also advancing future strategies to support the industry 2.) The opportunity to learn from the board and continue my personal development journey 3.) The opportunity to share some of my experiences with the board and students at Santa Clara.
Q: As an advisory board member what contributions do you hope to make to our students' educational experience and professional development?
I hope I am able to share some of my experiences with the students, so they get a clearer picture of the opportunities a career in retail can provide, in addition to help them understand the skill sets, and capabilities which can help them be successful. I also hope to provide real-world examples of complex problems they may encounter in the future, so they can develop a familiarity with some of the challenges they may experience, should they choose to pursue a retail career.
Q: In your opinion, which up-and-coming retail brand / retail trends should our students and community keep an eye on?
I think, of course, the emergence of digital retailers like TikTok shop, Schein and Temu are important to keep an eye on. In addition there are a multitude of direct to consumer challenger brands, and service providers, such as "The Farmer's Dog" in Pet, or Roman in healthcare who are disrupting the marketplace. Lastly, the off-price channel has seen a lot of success recently, in spite of very limited marketing and digital commerce capabilities. This is a channel we pay particular attention to at Kohl's, but will be interesting to see how they evolve their model.