James Baynum
@jamesbaynum
Enterprise digital growth executive with 25 years of transformation success.
What I'm looking for
I am an enterprise digital growth and transformation executive with over 25 years of experience in scaling omnichannel revenue and leading global teams. My career has been marked by a commitment to driving cross-functional change across Fortune 500 companies and global brands. I have a proven track record of managing P&Ls exceeding $800M in both B2B and B2C environments, and I am recognized for building high-performing teams and developing enterprise strategies that foster growth.
In my recent role as Vice President of eCommerce and Digital Transformation at HNI Corporation, I led the enterprise-wide digital strategy for a $3B portfolio, driving initiatives that modernized our tech stack and improved marketing ROI. I have also served as a trusted advisor to CEOs and boards, guiding them through complex digital trends and consumer behavior shifts. My leadership experience spans international markets, where I directed a 100+ person team at Newell Brands, shaping global eCommerce strategies and launching the company into high-potential markets.
Throughout my career, I have been dedicated to fostering organizational inclusion and talent development, serving as an executive sponsor for employee resource groups. I am passionate about leveraging digital transformation to create impactful change and drive sustainable growth in organizations.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
VP, eCommerce, Digital Marketing & Digital Transformation
HNI Corporation
Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 6 months)
Served on the executive leadership team, driving enterprise-wide digital strategy, marketing, and eCommerce initiatives across a $3B portfolio of B2B workplace furnishings and residential building product brands. Led end-to-end digital transformation encompassing go-to-market strategy, digital experience, performance marketing, CRM, product content, SEO/SEM, and omnichannel integration.
Head of International eCommerce
Newell Brands
Jan 2019 - Dec 2021 (2 years 11 months)
Led global eCommerce strategy and execution across all markets outside the U.S. for a $14B portfolio of 30+ brands. Directed a 100+ person international team across 20 countries in EMEA, APAC, LATAM, and Canada, structuring high-impact regional strategies and empowering local teams to accelerate digital growth.
Vice President, eCommerce – Professional Hygiene
Essity
Jan 2014 - Dec 2019 (5 years 11 months)
Led eCommerce strategy and execution for the $2B+ Professional Hygiene division, driving digital growth across North America and Europe in both mature and emerging B2B digital markets. Built and led a cross-regional team focused on eCommerce acceleration through strategic partnerships, digital shelf optimization, and marketplace channel expansion.
Progressive Commercial & Strategy Leadership Roles
Georgia-Pacific LLC
Jan 1997 - Dec 2014 (17 years 11 months)
Held leadership roles spanning customer development, national account management, category strategy, and omnichannel sales, serving top-tier partners including Amazon, Costco, and Staples. As Omnichannel Sales Director, led customer strategy and growth across retail, contract, and eCommerce business units for Office Depot and OfficeMax.
Senior Financial & Business Analyst
Hayes Computer Systems
Jan 1994 - Dec 1997 (3 years 11 months)
Worked as a Senior Financial & Business Analyst. This position involved financial analysis and business strategy.
Logistics & Distribution Officer
U.S. Army
Jan 1991 - Dec 2000 (9 years 11 months)
Served as a Logistics & Distribution Officer. This role involved managing logistical operations and distribution processes.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
Drexel University
Executive Doctor of Business Administration, Business Administration
Completed an Executive Doctor of Business Administration program. The curriculum focused on advanced business concepts and leadership strategies.
Stockholm School of Economics
Program Certificate, Digital Growth
Participated in the Digital Growth Accelerator Program. This program focused on accelerating digital growth strategies and implementation.
Campbell University
MBA, Business Administration
Earned a Master of Business Administration degree. The program provided a comprehensive understanding of business management and operations.
University of North Florida
BA, Arts
Completed a Bachelor of Arts degree. The curriculum provided foundational knowledge in various academic disciplines.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Job categories
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