Having worked in the retail industry as an analyst, consultant, strategist and technology company executive, Jim has a unique perspective on the retail industry, bringing together divergent points of view - the consumer, the retailer, CPG supplier, and technology vendor - into a compelling storyline that addresses all sides of the issue.

Jim's Background

As a retail analyst at Forrester Research, Jim authored research reports on topics ranging from next-generation store design to the use of RFID in the retail supply chain.

At Retail Forward, Jim served as vice president and CTO, leading strategy projects for retailers including Home Depot, Metro, REI and Limited Brands and developing custom research for technology vendors including IBM, Oracle, and Intel.

Managing an annual marketing budget of $1.3 million at Intel Corporation during his tenure as global industry manager of retail/CPG, Jim increased vertical revenue by 32% in one year and led strategic proof of concept deployments at Wal-Mart, Metro, Tesco, and Circuit City.

As the director of industry solution marketing for SAP Retail, Jim created the go-to-market strategy for food, fashion, and hardlines as well as retooling SAP's trade show presence to tell a convincing story using HD video for the first time.

Jim's Research

Jim has authored and co-authored numerous research pieces on the retail industry - from analyst reports to white papers - on a diverse array of topics including:

"Jim has a unique way of presenting that cuts through the hype to look at technologies in a very real-world manner. When I hear him speak I am challenged to think differently about topics and buzzwords that are floating around the industry, ultimately helping me make better decisions and forecasts."

Greg Buzek, IHL Group

"You'll find Jim at the future intersection of consumer behavior, technological possibilities, and operational realities. It's what makes his presentations both thought-provoking and actionable."

Jon Stine, Cisco Systems

"Attending one of Jim's talks is as entertaining as it is informative. When he grabs the podium, the audience is noticeably impressed and engaged. Jim's ability to persuade is unparalleled, and I can recommend a presentation by Jim to be well worth the investment."

Tony Latona, Tech Global Partners

"I often make my way to halls where he is speaking, as he has a practical, humorous way of bringing the future to us. He gives all of a gentle wake up call, reminding us that the future is now, and that we ought to be doing more things with the technology and tools we have, rather than wishing for Utopia. I always leave his speaking sessions with renewed energy and a sense of purpose."

Mani Subramaniam, Wipro Technologies

"Jim Crawford is an enthusiastic speaker who presents in an interesting, clear and concise manner. He engages the audience with relevant thoughts and ideas leaving you wanting to hear more about the integration of technology and more importantly mobile technology in our workplaces and our lives. I am eager to hear him speak again."

Ken Chance

"Jim Crawford is an exceptional presenter... engaging, dynamic and inspirational."

Chris Lyons, ST Media Group

"Jim is an acknowledged retail expert and his perspectives on the industry are insightful, global, and relevant in today's turbulent economic environment."

Isaac Krakovsky, Karabus RMC