Coworking with Michael Gunther

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Michael Gunther is VP and head of insights at consumer data firm Consumer Edge.

How would you describe your job to someone who doesn’t work in retail? Consumer Edge (CE) is a data and insights company that delivers unique views into global consumer spending behavior and offers our industry expertise to help businesses and investors make strategic data-driven decisions. As vice president and head of insights at CE, I leverage my expertise and market intelligence to guide investors and businesses in using a variety of data sources. I lead a team of seasoned data and financial analysts who are able to harness and interpret diverse forms of data including global credit card transactions, e-receipt data, and web scrape data to better understand where consumers are spending their money.

One thing we can’t guess about your job from your LinkedIn profile? One thing you couldn’t guess from my LinkedIn profile is that I love crossword puzzles. I even created a Slack channel with my colleagues dedicated to playing the New York Times Crossword Puzzle Dailys.

What’s your favorite project you’ve worked on? One of my most memorable accomplishments was leading the development of a large Insights Team. Today, the team is widely recognized as an industry differentiator. Witnessing the Consumer Edge Insight Center (CEIC) come to fruition is a source of profound gratification—a testament not only to my personal dedication but also to the unwavering commitment of Consumer Edge to provide our clients with valuable guidance on how to interpret data in a way that leads to successful decisions.

Which emerging retail trend are you most excited about right now, and why? I’m continuously intrigued by how consumer spending continues to evolve, and it is exciting to pay close attention to brands in the retail space…Recently, we have been keeping an eye on Temu and its effect on the retail space. We are paying attention to the US consumer transaction data from the brand, and are seeing a growing increase in customer count that is now equal to more than 5% of Amazon’s. With the increase in consumer spending, it is interesting to consider whether the brand can emerge as a more substantial rival to Amazon. However, to achieve this, they must address key challenges such as improving shipping and delivery times.

What’s your go-to coffee order? Every morning at 4:55am, my coffee maker automatically brews a delicious cup of coffee to which I add almond milk. Perfect way to start my early morning!

Worst piece of advice you’ve received? I was once told to always step in and help when I could. I have come to realize that was not the best route for me as a team leader. I have since learned that loosening the reins of team members helps me avoid micromanaging. In my role as a highly collaborative and involved team leader, I recognize the importance of finding a balance between actively contributing and empowering my colleagues.

What was your favorite retail product when you were 15, and what’s your favorite retail product now? In my teenage years, my favorite retail product was my PlayStation console, particularly when playing any Madden NFL games. However, my current favorite retail product has shifted to the practical and stylish comfort of the Slim Fit Saturday Pant by Marine Layer.