Building for the Future: Composable Commerce and Customer-Centricity with Simon Clarke
In this insightful episode of The CXO Secrets podcast, host David McClelland sits down with Simon Clarke, Global CIO at Clarks, to explore the transformation to a fully composable commerce architecture. Simon unpacks how this shift has enabled Clarks to build a more adaptable, responsive digital ecosystem that seamlessly connects online and in-store experiences. He discusses how moving away from traditional, rigid systems towards a flexible, composable approach has allowed Clarks to integrate new tools and capabilities with ease—keeping pace with evolving customer expectations and business needs. Simon also reflects on his team’s recent recognition at the MACH Impact Awards, celebrating their success in building a scalable, award-winning digital platform. This two-year project saw the rapid deployment of dozens of websites and hundreds of store integrations, demonstrating the power of a unified, customer-centered digital experience. David and Simon delve deeper into leadership philosophies, with Simon sharing his belief in fostering environments where talented individuals can excel without micromanagement. He explains how his passion for curating customer experiences and promoting a culture of innovation has shaped his journey. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on redefining retail through technology, championing a holistic view of the customer journey, and creating impactful digital transformation in an ever-evolving retail landscape.