Tom Betts discusses huge Kingfisher data opportunity

Kingfisher Data Director Tom Betts has set out his vision for the home improvement retailer.

Betts came onboard in September from the Financial Times, where he was Chief Data Officer.

In an online post, he says: “Retail is being reshaped by evolving consumer behaviour – trends that we have seen accelerate during the coronavirus pandemic”

“I’m fascinated by sectors that are being transformed by changing technology and have a firm belief that data can not only support transformation, but can be a key driver of digital growth.”

Hi data and retail twitter. I'm looking for folks to join me and build a brand new data team for Kingfisher Plc. More roles to come..for now leadership positions in data science, analytics and data platform development. DM me if you have questions!
— Tom Betts (@tombetts) January 13, 2021

He adds: “Kingfisher has a huge opportunity to capitalise on data owing to significant scale and much loved brands with millions of relationships with customers. But I was particularly drawn by the new “Powered by Kingfisher” strategy that has been set by CEO Thierry Garnier.”

“This is a bold vision to power the unique characteristics of our retail brands with our group expertise and to drive significant digital growth. Unlike many retailers, it sees stores as a strength and competitive advantage by positioning them at the centre of our e-commerce proposition.”

In 2020, Kingfisher bolstered its customer and digital teams, and in 2021 it will be building new data teams and capabilities.

Betts states: “As a retailer there are opportunities for data to help optimise every corner of our business – from making better, faster, simpler decision making, personalised experiences for customers and supporting more efficient and effective operations.”

“We have the opportunity to drive substantial change with data - the scale and scope of the opportunity is huge.”

“I believe that the data and tools that allow us to build and nurture strong, direct relationships with customers is a source of competitive advantage, and that our data will become a critical strategic asset..”

“Making connections from the demand signals that we get from our customers will help us to optimise our operations in order to serve them better. With customer data providing a unique lens – not only on our e-commerce operations – but on our full product and sales lifecycle,” he concludes.