By George Anderson
Best Buy's latest management shuffle is the most recent indication that it is set on moving forward with its domestic consumer-centricity initiatives while looking overseas, specifically China, for future growth opportunities.
The consumer electronics retailer has promoted company veteran Brian Dunn to president and chief operating officer and named Robert Willett as the CEO of Best Buy International.
Best Buy CEO Brad Anderson said of Mr. Dunn: "Brian has deep contextual knowledge of the company, gained over his successful 20-year track record with us. As a leader, Brian has excelled because he values and promotes initiative, innovation and collaboration. He knows how to tap the strengths of every individual on his team, and he is quick to embrace new ideas. His combination of confidence and the desire to win makes him a natural choice for this role."
Mr. Dunn said, "I'm excited about the challenge of taking customer centricity to a new level, and making it how we do business at all of our stores. By bringing our stores together with the teams that gather customer insights and those that identify customer solutions, we will have a powerful combination that we expect will truly differentiate Best Buy in the marketplace."
Mr. Willett is seen as an expert in supply chain and information technology.
"Bob has made tremendous progress with a myriad of initiatives around our supply chain and core information technology systems," said Mr. Anderson. "Before he joined Best Buy as an officer, he worked alongside us as a consultant for five years and ultimately was asked to serve as a special advisor to our board of directors. He has significant experience in international retailing. He has run department stores in the United Kingdom, Europe and Asia; held leadership roles for a general merchandise retailer in the United Kingdom; and consulted with top-200 retailers. His experiences will be invaluable to us as he takes the lead on our international expansion."
"My focus will continue to be on transforming our supply chain and IT infrastructure. I'm pleased to assume additional responsibility for our international business, where supply chain and IT can play a critical role in delivering our long-term success. I believe that with the right structure, we can pursue controlled growth in other countries with less risk," said Mr. Willett.
Moderator's Comment: What are your thoughts on Best Buy's strategic plans for growth? What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in front of the company as it moves forward? - George Anderson - Moderator