Kris Merz

partner

Executive IT Consultant

kmerz@columbusconsulting.com

About

Kris is a Partner at Columbus Consulting and a seasoned global retail technology executive with expertise in driving strategy and executing large-scale technology and business transformations that fuel growth, elevate performance, and enhance profitability. Kris is recognized as a change agent who seamlessly connects people, technology, and processes to execute initiatives effectively.

Before joining Columbus in 2023, Kris held leadership positions such as CIO, CTO, and CDO at rue21, La Senza International, York Risk Services, OCLC,, and The Limited.

Signature Skill

“I design and deliver IT transformation strategies that align business objectives, optimizing operations and driving measurable growth.”

  • Digital Transformation Visionary
  • Business-Technology Translator
  • Customer-Centric Innovator
  • Cost Optimization Strategist
  • Data-Driven Decision Maker

Expertise

  • Data & Analytics, PIM, MDM
  • Unified commerce: OMS, ecommerce, POS, mobile, unified data platforms
  • Mar-tech
  • Supply Chain
  • Product LIfe Cycle (PLM)
  • Acquisitions & Divestitures
  • ERP, Finance, HCM/HR, Merchandising

Companies Served

  • BioCare, Inc.
  • Hamrick’s, Inc.
  • Skims Body, Inc.
  • rue21
  • CTS (Christmas Tree Shops)
  • Leslie’s Poolmart
  • National Veterinary Associates
  • Victoria’s Secrets, La Senza
  • Big Lots

Industry, Category

  • Retail
  • Distributor
  • Ecommerce
  • Apparel
  • Intimate Apparel
  • Specialty
  • Therapeutic biological
  • General Merchandise

Solution Proficiencies

  • ERP: Oracle / NetSuite / Island Pacific, Jesta IS
  • Salesforce Marketing, Service Cloud, B2B
  • WMS: Manhattan / Koerber
  • OMS: Kibo, Manhattan
  • Data & Analytics Solutions
  • Martech
  • PLM Solutions
  • Workday HR / Finance
  • POS: Oracle XStore, Retail J, NCR, Aptos
  • eCommerce: Salesforce, Kibo, Shopify

Consulting Service

  • IT Strategy & Transformation Delivery
  • RFP System Selections
  • Strategic & Tactical Plans
  • IT Assessments & Roadmaps
  • Project Management & Delivery
  • Systems Implementations

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