Stephen Laughlin

Vice President & General Manager, Global Consumer Industry

Steve is known for helping retail and consumer product clients worldwide to transform their business models and consumer-facing activities. He is a leader in implementing complex business and technology solutions that drive improved performance. 

He leads IBM’s Consumer Industry across the company’s portfolio which includes retail, consumer products, and wholesale distribution. His organization is responsible for defining IBM’s industry strategy, creating thought leadership, developing offerings and industry solutions, growing industry subject matter expertise, building delivery capabilities and capacity, advancing client relationships, and supporting business development teams. 

Steve has 20+ years’ experience in the consulting industry serving clients and managing global and domestic practices. In the past he led key IBM consulting practices including the company’s global Retail and Consumer Products, global 

Smarter Commerce and the Growth Markets Application Innovation businesses. 

Steve began his career in store management at Sears, Roebuck & Co. then entered consulting with Ernst & Young. He serves on the National Retail Federation and Retail Industry Leaders Association boards of directors and as an advisor to the World Retail Congress. Steve serves his local community as a member of the board of directors for UCHealth Longs Peak Hospital.