Philip Smiley

Philip Smiley serves as the Executive Director at Samarkand Global, focusing on enhancing China e-commerce and facilitating better access for Chinese shoppers to international brands since January 2022. Prior to this role, Philip was the CEO of the Global Consulting Division at Kantar from June 2006 to January 2022, where significant achievements included integrating multiple operating companies, launching innovative practices in digital commerce and sustainable transformation, and leading the successful sale of Kantar Group to Bain Capital. As CEO of Global Kantar Retail, Philip shaped a consulting strategy centered on technology, spearheaded numerous acquisitions, and improved employee engagement. Earlier experience includes building the retail business in the Asia Pacific region and various positions at Iceland Foods, supplemented by expertise gained at Glendinning Management Consultants. Philip earned a BA Hons in Marketing and Modern Languages from the University of Strathclyde and studied at KEDGE Business School.