Jon Derkits

BEST@AMAZON NEWSLETTER --> https://bestatamazon.ck.page/

QUICK CHAT --> https://tidycal.com/jonderkits/quick-chat
AMAZON COACHING & ADVISORY --> https://tidycal.com/jonderkits/amazon-coaching-and-advisory

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Hi, I'm Jon and I'm a builder. 

Over the course of my 15-year career in management consulting and technology companies, I've built teams, I've built processes, I've built products, and I've built businesses (the 10-figure kind). I'm at my best when I'm in a role with scope and significance, and my superpower is consistency.

Some things I'm GOOD at include dealing with ambiguity and making good decisions in fast-paced, uncertain environments. Some things I'm *GREAT* at include obsessing over customers and developing my people.

Follow me here on LinkedIn if you want to hear my thoughts on Amazon, building great teams, or the current state of Chicago sports.

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CLIFTON STRENGTHS
Harmony, Achiever, Learner, Positivity, Ideation

DOMAIN KNOWLEDGE
eCommerce, Marketplaces/Platforms, Valuation 

FUNCTIONAL SKILLS
Business Performance Measurement, Category Management, Data Analytics, Digital Marketing, Financial Statement Analysis, Lean Six Sigma, P&L Ownership, Strategic Planning, Team Leadership, Written Communication

TECHNICAL SKILLS
Amazon Seller Central, Bloomberg, Capital IQ, Microsoft Office, SQL, Tableau

Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)

How I'd fix LinkedIn

1) Add a Copilot button
2) When posts include multiple images, make them swipable carousels (like Instagram); not whatever this garbage UX is called
3) Make it easier to search your own activity history (posts, comments, etc)
4) Reduce AI slop by 50% in 2026, and then by another 50% in 2027. Suppress reach of AI posts and comments.
5) Reduce reach of "comment X for Y" engagement bait posts
6) Implement a Creator Revenue Sharing program, similar to X
7) Create different feed views. One for 1st connections only; one for 1st through 3rd connections (or whatever the feed algo is now); and one for "interests" as defined by the user.
8) Turn LinkedIn into a platform where experts can monetize their expertise more directly -- i.e., build an "intro.co" platform within LinkedIn
9) Fix InMail. At minimum, give me more filing/organizing options than "Focused" and "Other".
10) Get rid of the dumb games feature. If LinkedIn is really meant to be a space for professionals, don't muddy the brand by maintaining this little corner of the platform that is all about juicing user engagement metrics.

Buying & Building eCommerce Agencies | Ex-Amazon

Me, walking away from an otherwise smart LinkedIn post polluted with AI replies

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TWO (RELATED) PREDICTIONS for 2026 👇 

1) AI content will become indistinguishable from human-made content

2) Because of #1, consumers will crave truly authentic human outputs (the pendulum probably won't swing this direction until 2027 or later)

Tell me in the comments why I'm wrong about this 🫠

This is Amazon's 4th attempt at Making Retail Great Again.

Over the past decade, Amazon has tried (and mostly failed) with:

-Amazon Books (bookstores, duh)
-Amazon 4-Star (gift-focused outlet)
-Amazon Go (automated grab-and-go stores)
-Amazon Fresh (mainstream grocery)

I'll go on the record here:

👉  I don't think Amazon will succeed with the big box format.

I think the only shot that Amazon has at winning in physical retail is to copy the Costco warehouse club format, and create an exclusive bulk buying experience for its Prime members.

***
#amazon
#ecommerce
#retail

The big news from CES 2026 that *no one* is talking about...

👉  Amazon is pivoting from a "hardware-first" strategy to an "AI-services-first" model

And the cornerstone of this pivot is the launch of Alexa.com, which brings the generative AI-powered Alexa+ directly to people's browsers.

Here's why this matters:

1) For the first time, users do not need an Echo speaker to enter the Alexa ecosystem. 

By launching a web-based chat interface at Alexa.com, Amazon is moving into direct, side-by-side competition with ChatGPT and Google Gemini.

2) Amazon's differentiator isn't just "smarter" conversation; it's the ability to execute workflows (particularly shopping-related workflows). 

Alexa+ is being positioned as a "personal chief of staff".

3) This will further fuel the Amazon Prime flywheel.

Alexa+ will cost $19.99/month as a standalone subscription. BUT: It is included for free with an Amazon Prime membership.

At roughly $240/year for the standalone AI vs. the $139/year Prime membership, Prime becomes an even more obvious value proposition for heavy AI users.

#ces2026
#amazon
#amazonalexa

Amazon's big announcement at CES is that it is pivoting from a "hardware-first" strategy to an "AI-services-first" model. 

GW Partners

GW Partners is a unique firm that combines the best elements of operational consulting, financial management, strategic planning and M&A Advisory services to partner with consumer brands to transform them into far more valuable and coveted strategic acquisition targets.

We Help Owners Transform Their Companies, Increase Value and Maximize an Exit

GW Partners engages and partners with consumer products brands that desire to create, implement and execute an operational plan to materially increase the value and overall attractiveness of the company as a strategic acquisition target. 

Our partner clients leverage the powerful combination of our extensive experience with: (1) Operational execution across all functional areas of their businesses and (2) Mergers and Acquisitions dealmaking and business sale process management.

We work side by side with the Founders and Chief Executives that we serve to create and execute a comprehensive growth and transformation plan for the company.  No matter what the desired timeline for a strategic transaction – 6 months, 2 years, 5 years, unknown – the end result of the process is the same: our partner client company is a far more valuable and coveted strategic acquisition target.

Founding Partner

South Col

eCommerce accelerator providing strategic resources and capital enabling founder’s dream exit

South Col, an accelerator for eCommerce brands seeking a high valuation sale: providing capital, strategic advice, operational support and exit strategy. We work from a founder's dream exit valuation to design the path needed to make the dream become a reality in 18-24 months. 

South Col is headquartered in New York City with offices in Charlotte and Tel Aviv. 

You can learn more about South Col at www.southcol.co.

Founding Partner 

Global Wired Advisors

Global Wired Advisors is a leading Digital Investment Bank focused on optimizing the business sale process. Our approach combines decades of merger and acquisition experience with online and e-commerce expertise to increase the transactional value of your greatest asset.

Maximizing the value of your company in a business sale is achieved through the full expression of its future potential. Choosing the right representation to provide this vision to the right buyer, means putting your future in focus.

Global Wired prides itself on a different approach than most intermediaries when selling your business. We combine decades of Investment Banking + Manufacturing | Sales Leadership Digital Marketing | Amazon experience to shop your company in a broad capital distribution network. This, in turn, maximizes the value of your company. 

cs@globalwiredadvisors.com

Managing Partner

Robert & Pearl

As a seasoned **Enterprise Level Consultant** specializing in **Senior Sales, Trade, and Digital Marketing Management**, I founded **Robert and Pearl** to address the need for brands to engage directly with consumers rather than relying solely on retail relationships. My firm excels in helping small to medium-sized businesses in the baby, toy, and consumer product categories develop and execute robust digital strategies.

With over a decade of hands-on experience in Amazon Vendor Central and Seller Central, I’ve directly managed over $100 million in Amazon-based revenue for multiple brands. I bring deep expertise in crafting end-to-end direct-to-consumer (DTC) strategies, optimizing digital sales channels, and enhancing customer acquisition.

Key Accomplishments:
- Digital Strategy Development: Worked closely with founders and CEOs to formulate and implement effective digital strategies, ensuring successful sales and acquisition through optimized digital channels.
- Amazon Management: Leveraged 10+ years of experience to navigate Amazon’s ecosystem, driving significant revenue growth and maximizing brand visibility.
- DTC Initiatives: Implemented comprehensive DTC strategies, including online storefront management, digital advertising, and direct consumer engagement.
- Sales and Trade Expertise: Managed sales operations and trade marketing, aligning them with digital efforts to boost overall brand performance.
- Channel Development: Assisted businesses in establishing and optimizing digital sales channels, integrating e-commerce platforms, and utilizing social media for both sales and customer acquisition.

My career is defined by a commitment to helping businesses build strong consumer connections and achieve sustainable growth in the digital landscape. By offering strategic insights and actionable guidance, I empower brands to enhance their digital presence and drive long-term success.

Owner

JANÉ GROUP

- Established Initial Sales, Marketing, and Operational Strategy  
   Developed and implemented the comprehensive strategy for launching and expanding the North American subsidiary.

- Spearheaded Business Launch and Growth Initiatives  
   Executed a range of activities to successfully introduce and scale the business in North America, including activating and executing a robust digital marketing strategy.

- Built and Led High-Performing Teams  
   Recruited and structured a cohesive team across various functions to drive operational efficiency and business growth.

- Formulated Annual Budgets and Performance Metrics  
   Set and monitored all annual budgets, targets, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure alignment with business objectives.

- Directed a Team of Six Sales Representatives 
   Provided leadership and management to a group of six sales representatives, driving sales performance and market penetration.

- Oversaw Amazon Direct Business Operations  
   Executed and managed the Amazon direct sales channel, achieving a seven-figure initial revenue run rate.

- Managed External Public Relations and Marketing Agencies  
   Directed the activities of external PR and marketing firms to enhance brand visibility and market presence.

- Developed Strategic Media Relationships 
   Established and leveraged high-level media relationships to sustain and enhance brand awareness.

- Represented Jane USA at Major Industry Events 
   Attended and represented the company at major trade shows and marketing events to foster industry connections and market insights.

- Negotiated Key Contracts and Operational Agreements  
   Secured office space, fulfillment services, and major contracts, resulting in six-figure cost savings through strategic negotiations.

- Reported Directly to Parent Company CEO 
   Maintained direct communication with the CEO of the parent company, providing updates and insights on subsidiary performance and strategy.

Executive General Manager North & South America

Evenflo Company, Inc.

•	Key Account Management and Strategic Marketing Planning– Kmart | Sears | Burlington | Bed Bath and Beyond / Buy Buy Baby | TJ Maxx | BJ’s
•	Business Planning to reach Financial Plan
•	Managed 50MM + Top Line Sales and 7MM + Marketing Budget 
•	Demand Planning Management for all accounts. Worked directly with the COO to develop an S&OP flow
•	POS Analysis
•	Created a Drop Ship cross functional team which resulted in 2 million incremental sales
•	Worked in ERP on a daily basis

Sr. Director Of Sales

•	Managed 35MM + million Top Line Sales and 5MM Marketing Budget
•	Key Account Management for 2 of top 5 accounts
•	Account Merchandising Strategy: price, product, promotion, place
•	Worked with the CMO to develop an exclusive premium product line for a top customer which resulted in 2+ million incremental sales 
•	Led an e-commerce cross functional team which resulted in an incremental 4+ million in sales

Director of Sales

•	Direct Sales Force and account profitability for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Accounts
•	Business Planning to reach Financial Plan
•	Managed over 25 Million in Sales
•	Demand Planning Management
•	Hired and Restructured Independent Sales Force
•	Direct all Collateral Marketing work from NPS/NDP all the way to launch
•	Worked in ERP on a daily basis

National Sales Manager

Combi USA, Inc.

•	Managed 20+ million in annual company sales 
•	Direct Sales Force and account profitability for all Domestic and International accounts
•	Direct all Collateral Marketing work from NPD all the way to launch
•	Directed new website implementation for Combi, focusing on recreating the in-store experience 
•	Renegotiated and developed new resources resulting in a 20% savings for the Combi Marketing budget
•	Create and Implement Strategic Sales Strategies for Key accounts such as Babies R Us, Amazon.com, Sears, Meijer, Buy Buy Baby, The Right Start, Target.com, BJ’s, Costco
•	Experience presenting to Key Accounts and assisting in the merchandising and expansion of new MASS retailers such as AAFES, Meijer, Sears, Target, 
•	Work with Combi’s International Distributors to create and implement product strategies for key accounts in Canada, South America, and Mexico
•	Babies R Us revenue grew by 40 percent from 2007 to 2008
•	Manage a team of 13 Sales Professionals and Customer Service Representatives
•	Assisted with Operations to create a  new process to make our order to shipment process more efficient and automated
•	Created a new Sales Training process for our Sales force, utilizing a Product Field Guide to reach our customers and educate their associates, which resulted in stronger store and internet sales
•	Experience in reporting accomplishments and benchmarks for Combi financial goals to the Board of Directors
•	Experience working with overseas factories and assisted in Product Development
•	Assisted in the creation and implementation of the Virtual Sales Rep – a software program that feeds real time inventory, product, and ordering information to all accounts
•	Instrumental in merchandising the 2008/2009/2010/2011 Combi USA product line

Executive Director Of Sales & Marketing

•	Managed all accounts related to the East Coast specifically in the Specialty and Internet distribution
•	Took over as Manager of Combi’s International Accounts in South America, Canada, and Mexico
•	Managed a Sales force of Four Sales Representatives in the New England, NYC, Midwest, South West Territories
•	Grew the South West territory by 100% in 2 years
•	Grew the South East territory by 20%

Sr. Sales Manager

•	Responsible for analyzing all Product Placement for new product launches
•	Managed and grew the South East territory by 20 percent 2005 to 2006

Internal Sales Manager

•	Responsible for a  Territory that was reporting 250k in revenue
•	By the end of 2005, the territory grew to 1.2 million dollars
•	In charge of Analyzing Product Placement for all new products
•	Led and developed the Accessory category for Combi

Internal Sales Rep

•	Analyzed Sales and Profitability by Customer
•	Reported all Sales revenue by customer directly to the Sales Director and President
•	Created new reports to help the Sales Force understand their product placement, revenue, and profitability by customer and channel

Sales Analyst

Helping Founders Build Their Companies Into Strategically Optimized Acquisition Targets | Investment Banking and Strategic Advisory Services for Consumer Products | E-Commerce | Omni-Channel | Investor in Digital Brands

Elevate Your Consumer Products Brand with GW Partners

Are you a consumer products brand owner aiming to transform your company into a valuable asset primed for future success, including a lucrative sale?

As a brand owner, you face numerous challenges: evolving market trends, digital disruptions, and fierce competition. Navigating these complexities while maintaining profitability can be daunting.

Our Approach

At GW Partners, we specialize in optimizing every facet of your business, crafting a strategic roadmap that leads to remarkable outcomes:

- Enhanced Valuation: Elevate your brand's worth, positioning it for a higher sale price.
- Lucrative Exit Strategy: Prepare your business for a profitable sale, ensuring a seamless transition.
- Market Dominance: Achieve a competitive edge through innovative digital strategies.
- Global Reach: Expand your consumer products' reach beyond boundaries.
- Improved Profitability: Streamline operations for sustained growth and profitability.

Tailored Solutions

Our sophisticated solutions tackle even the most intricate challenges:

- Digital Transformation: Harness cutting-edge technology to optimize processes.
- Data-Driven Insights: Leverage data to make informed decisions and fuel growth.
- E-commerce Excellence: Develop an online presence that resonates with your target audience.
- Strategic Partnerships: Forge valuable alliances to amplify brand reach.

Proven Success

Our track record speaks for itself, with numerous clients achieving substantial growth, significantly higher valuations, and successful sales. Together, we've turned businesses into thriving assets primed for acquisition.

Let’s embark on this transformative journey together. Whether you're looking to maximize your brand's value, prepare for a sale, or conquer the digital landscape, we are here to help every step of the way. Let's connect and discuss how we can make your consumer products brand the next success story.

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