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. The retail environment is constantly evolving, particularly with the transformation occurring between brick & mortar retail, ecommerce and digital media. It is more important than ever we leverage consumer insights, both from an academic and business perspective, to inform how we shape the future of retail.
Q: As an advisory board member what contributions do you hope to make to our students' educational experience and professional development?
I look forward to sharing some of my retail experiences with the students, as well as helping create real-world projects they can participate in, which will give them exposure to what a career in retail may be like. In addition, I intend to help the students get a clearer picture of what it takes to be successful in business and retail, as well as the opportunities a career in retail can provide. I feel fortunate to have had many mentors throughout my career, and look forward to paying it forward to as many students as possible.