Michael Brown is a partner in Kearney's consumer products and retail practice, where he’s passionate about retail’s fast pace and direct connection to the consumer. Unlike some industries, retail is part of our everyday lives. “It’s real. You can touch it,” Michael says. “The impact of our work can be seen in stores and online.”
Michael is inspired to work at Kearney because it combines a large firm’s capabilities, assets, and experience while remaining a “collaborative and intimate place to work.”
One of Michael’s most memorable retail projects was the integration of two companies during a merger. Michael and his team worked on the strategy, cost structure, assortment, operating model, and store footprint. “When the project was completed, it was exhilarating to step back and see the value we created for the shareholders and employees, in partnership with the client,” Michael says. “Upon reflection, we also realized we were more impressed with how much we grew individually and as a team.”
Beyond his consulting work, Michael contributes his perspectives on topics such as retail omnichannel strategy and operations. He’s been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, CNBC’s “Squawk Box,” and Bloomberg’s “What’d You Miss,” providing insights into consumer shopping behaviors and trends.
One of the biggest topics of interest of the past 15 years is the emergence and growth of e-commerce and how retailers have had to adapt. “There’s been such an evolution where the store has become less important, online has become more important,” Michael says. “It requires new ways to engage the consumer. It’s required new operating models for the overall business, as well as a dramatic transformation of the store network.” This evolution compels him to help clients envision the broader business holistically, rather than overfocusing on one channel.
Michael has found his career purpose through the ever-evolving opportunities in consulting. “Every year, there’s a new challenge. Every day, you help clients solve their most difficult problems,” he says. “Consulting gives you the opportunity to continuously learn and to grow.”