Dive Brief:
- Albertsons has named Narayan Iyengar as its new senior VP of digital marketing and e-commerce, according to Chain Store Age.
- In his new role, Iyengar will be responsible for leading all aspects of the company’s digital marketing, which consist of loyalty programs, shopper marketing and overall digital presence. He will also be in charge of the company’s e-commerce business, including home delivery.
- With almost 20 years of experience, most recently as VP of e-commerce and digital travel trade for the Walt Disney Company, Iyengar’s expertise will enable Albertsons “to deploy new service and marketing models to attract more shoppers and grow our business both in stores and online,” according to Shane Sampson, Albertson’s chief marketing and merchandising officer.
Dive Insight:
While at first glance it may seem odd that Albertsons' would select someone with a background at Disney to lead the retailer's e-commerce segment, Narayan Iyengar's extensive e-commerce experience makes him a savvy hire.
Iyengar began his career as a software engineer with IBM Global Services and has held several technology delivery and leadership roles across different firms and industries.
The tech exec also helped create the e-commerce platform for Disney and optimized the company’s e-commerce capabilities across 20 websites and apps. Despite the difference in industry, Albertsons is betting his skills will be just as successful in the grocery world. Disney recently saw a huge uptick in customer satisfaction at Walt Disney World because of bold new digital initiatives — including a comprehensive website redesign and introducing RFID bracelets for park admission, lines, hotels, and concessions.
With online shopping stealing revenue share from brick-and-mortar stores, Albertsons is wise to develop a new platform, an endeavor that’s right in Iyengar’s wheelhouse. With his help, the grocery chain can become more in tune with what millennials are looking for in e-commerce.
Younger demographics aren't the only shoppers who will benefit from digital outreach. A report from Brick & Click showed that people of all ages are curious about online shopping. Companies like Albertsons should consider investing in e-commerce choices, and this hire is a great first step.