Brian Rowland

Professional Background

Brian Rowland is a dynamic and experienced senior executive who has made significant contributions in the fields of ecommerce, automotive aftermarket, and organizational leadership. With a robust career that spans over two decades, Brian is notably skilled in operational excellence and is well-regarded for his expertise in ecommerce strategies. His diverse experience encompasses multiple facets of business operations, including competitive pricing, strategic planning, product management, private label development, margin management, eCommerce retailing, and merchandising.

Brian's professional journey is marked by remarkable achievements and a consistent record of excellence. He has successfully managed complex, multi-million dollar profit and loss (P&L) statements, demonstrating not only his financial acumen but also his capability to drive substantial growth in large organizations. His ability to nurture and lead diverse, global teams has been a testament to his leadership skills and commitment to fostering an inclusive and productive workplace culture.

Education and Achievements

Brian Rowland pursued a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, which laid the foundation for his career in business strategy and management. His academic training provided him with critical insights into the dynamics of business, equipping him with the knowledge and skills necessary for navigating complex corporate environments.

Throughout his career, Brian has held several key roles that highlight his versatility and expert understanding of the industry. Notably, he served as the Vice President and General Manager of Automotive, Tires, and Powersports at Walmart eCommerce. In this capacity, he has been instrumental in shaping eCommerce strategies for one of the world's largest retailers, streamlining operations, and enhancing customer experiences to drive sales and profitability.

Prior to his tenure at Walmart, Brian spent several years at Nissan Motor Corporation, where he held pivotal roles including Director of Marketing & Technology and Director of Aftersales Technology & Insights. His time at Nissan allowed him to gain invaluable insights into the automotive sector and the intersection of technology and consumer behavior, especially in digital platforms.

Even earlier in his career, Brian held a prominent position at Transamerican Auto Parts Co as the Head of Digital & eCommerce. His strategic leadership and vision were key to enhancing the company's online presence and overall consumer engagement. He also contributed significantly as the VP of Category Management at US Auto Parts, where he was responsible for shaping product strategies and driving market penetration.

Notably, Brian's career began with a strong foothold in the entertainment industry. He held various positions at BLOCKBUSTER Online, where he advanced from Senior Program Manager to Online Retail Sales GM and Director. His roles involved handling project management and business processes that were critical for successful online operations. Finally, earlier in his career, he gained experience as a Management Consultant at Accenture, where he honed his analytical and strategic thinking skills in a fast-paced consulting environment.

Achievements

Brian Rowland's career is punctuated by several noteworthy achievements, particularly in areas such as ecommerce efficiency, market innovation, and team leadership. His strategic planning initiatives have effectively boosted product management and development efforts, leading to increased customer satisfaction and brand loyalty. His approach to private label development has not only maximized margins but also fostered brand recognition and equity in competitive markets.

Under Brian's guidance, the ecommerce divisions at his previous organizations notably improved customer engagement metrics and profitability through well-executed online strategies. His expertise in automotive catalog management and development has been an asset in refining product discovery for consumers, ultimately elevating the overall shopping experience.

Brian's leadership style is characterized by inclusivity and empowerment, which has been essential in managing large, diverse teams. His ability to motivate staff while driving operational excellence has cultivated high-performance environments across all settings he has worked in. As a thought leader in the industry, Brian continues to advocate for best practices in ecommerce and operational strategy, making a lasting impact on all organizations he collaborates with.