065 - Mike Robinson - Navigating the Future of Retail with AI and Green Initiatives

In this insightful episode of "Supply Chain Next," host Richard Donaldson engages with Mike Robinson, a visionary in the retail and logistics sector. Mike shares his diverse career trajectory, starting from his early days at Johnson & Johnson in Pennsylvania, moving through significant roles at Price Waterhouse, and finally delving into the world of supply chain and logistics. The episode delves into Mike's unique experiences, including his pivotal role in digital transformation at Macy's, where he led a tenfold revenue growth and established Macys.com as a leading digital retailer. His journey also includes impactful stints at Gap and his current influential position at The Eighth Notch (T8N), focusing on sustainable logistics solutions. Throughout the conversation, Mike emphasizes the importance of AI in retail, discussing how it enhances customer experiences and drives efficiency. The discussion also covers his approach to leadership, treating technologists with empathy to unlock innovation. As the episode progresses, Mike and Richard explore the challenges and opportunities in implementing technology across various industries, particularly focusing on AI's role in optimizing delivery schedules and the potential of circular economy practices in supply chain management. The episode concludes with Mike's insights on entrepreneurship, the value of experience in the startup ecosystem, and his vision for the future of retail and supply chain management. https://t8notch.com/ Mike Robinson - Industry Vertical Advisor, Retail and Consumer Goods; Head of Retail Operations, The Eighth Notch https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-robinson/