Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast hosted by Edwin Frondozo features Paul Newton, creative producer of the Future Narrator miniseries, interviewing Parag Parekh, the Chief Digital Officer at IKEA Retail.
Parag discusses IKEA's ambitious and human-centered digital transformation journey. He outlines the company’s three-tier transformation process: shifting from physical to omni retailing, moving from large store formats to smaller, city-center locations, and expanding services to meet broader customer needs like second-hand furniture and financial services, while also preparing for future AI advancements.
Parag shares insights from his extensive 20 years of global experience and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, responsibility, and adaptability in leadership. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19, the significance of sustainability, and the critical role of corporate responsibility in the digital age.
00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast
00:36 Meet Parag Parekh: IKEA's Chief Digital Officer
02:12 IKEA's Digital Transformation Journey
06:37 Personal Insights and Leadership Journey
14:11 Future of Retail and Digital Innovation
19:37 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders
20:43 Conclusion and Farewell
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