The New Needs of Retail Enterprise Leaders

Abstract

Chapter 10 is complementary to Chapter 9. The chapter focuses on the new needs of retail business leaders themselves. Certainly, some of what can be considered ‘conventional’ retail-specific skills—such as merchandising and product sourcing—continue to be highly relevant in the new retail landscape. Other skill areas have become more important whilst others are, relatively if not absolutely, de-emphasized. More personal attributes that enterprise leaders will need are also discussed. Prominent in this regard is the capacity of enterprise leaders to lead effectively in environments that are defined by uncertainty.