David Bell

David Bell is a prominent figure in the e-commerce and direct-to-consumer (DTC) retail space. He is the President and Co-Founder of Idea Farm Ventures, a consumer investment holding company based in New York City.12

Background and Expertise

Bell is widely recognized as an expert in digital marketing and e-commerce. He developed the first digital marketing and e-commerce course at the Wharton School, where he held a chaired professorship for 20 years.12 His academic background includes:

• Ph.D. from Stanford University's Graduate School of Business
• M.S. in Statistics from Stanford University
• M.Com. and B.Com. from the University of Auckland2

Contributions to the Industry

Bell has been instrumental in shaping the DTC and e-commerce landscape:

• He is known as the "guru of the consumer economy" by Inc. Magazine.1
• Referred to as the "guru of the direct to consumer movement" and "the man who kick-started the direct brand economy".2
• Author of the award-winning book "Location Is (Still) Everything".1

Investment and Advisory Role

At Idea Farm Ventures, Bell focuses on investing in and advising consumer and retail innovators:

• Early investor in successful brands like Diapers.com, Jet.com, Bonobos, Harry's, and Warby Parker.1
• Provides mentorship and guidance to founders on competitive strategies and business culture.1
• Employs a "mentor circle" approach, bringing together academics and business experts to support startups.1

Speaking and Thought Leadership

Bell is a sought-after speaker and advisor in the retail and e-commerce space:

• Speaks globally for clients including Alibaba, Google, Haier, Nike, and Ralph Lauren.2
• Shares insights on digital leverage, business transformation, and strategies for competing in the omnichannel marketplace.1

David Bell's expertise spans academia, investment, and practical business advice, making him a influential figure in the evolving retail economy and direct-to-consumer brand landscape.