In a strategic move aimed at scaling operations in Southeast Asia, etaily has announced the appointment of Lester Cuneta as Chief Growth Officer. As a digital-native retail platform, etaily aims to strengthen its footprint in Singapore and other key markets in the region. This development comes on the heels of a recent funding boost, with the company securing USD $17.8 million in Series A funding to enhance its consumer and merchant engagement strategies.
Lester Cuneta brings a wealth of experience to etaily, having held pivotal roles at notable companies including Alibaba’s Synagie, Unilever, Lazada, and HappyFresh. His career trajectory reflects a deep engagement with commercial transformation and go-to-market strategies, fostering significant growth in market share and revenues for each organization he has been part of. Cuneta’s tenure as Venture Partner at Kaya Founders and as Group Chief Process Officer for Synagie Group Asia and Europe underscores his capability in navigating complex eCommerce landscapes.
Alexander Friedhoff, the Founder and CEO of etaily, highlighted Cuneta’s unique profile, stating, “As a next-generation consumer products platform, we leverage technology, industry expertise, and strategic collaborations to ignite growth and launch brands beyond expectations.” Friedhoff’s enthusiasm for Cuneta’s leadership is clear; he believes Cuneta’s insights and experience are crucial for etaily’s next growth phase. Similarly, Paulo Campos, an investor in etaily and former Co-Founder of Zalora, expressed excitement over Cuneta’s appointment, noting his ability to guide companies through the rapidly changing eCommerce environment.
Cuneta’s role is expected to extend etaily’s operations beyond the Philippines, where the company is headquartered, into markets such as Malaysia and Singapore. He aims to utilize the company’s technological innovations to drive growth and scalability across these regions. The impending expansion not only reflects etaily’s commitment to increasing its market presence but also aligns with Cuneta’s vision of producing a superior digital commerce experience.
Reflecting on his new role, Cuneta stated, “I am absolutely delighted to join etaily at this pivotal moment in their journey. My previous collaborations with etaily during my time with Kaya left me deeply impressed by their commitment to innovation and operational excellence.” His excitement suggests that he sees significant potential to enhance the brand management strategies and operational capabilities at etaily. This is vital as the company seeks to establish itself as a leader in the competitive digital commerce landscape of Southeast Asia.
The recent influx of funding will play a critical role in driving etaily’s expansion plans. The company aims to enhance its offerings not just for consumers but also for merchants looking to navigate the complexities of the digital marketplace. By optimizing their engagement strategies, etaily plans to create an elevated experience that addresses the unique challenges businesses face in a crowded eCommerce space.
For businesses operating in the digital retail sphere, etaily’s growth strategy under Cuneta’s leadership offers several lessons. First, the importance of strategic hires cannot be understated; a leader with the right expertise can catalyze growth and innovation. Second, securing financial backing to support expansion efforts is crucial in today’s competitive environment. The combination of these elements creates a robust framework for successful scaling and market penetration.
As etaily sets its sights on becoming a powerhouse for digital commerce solutions in Southeast Asia, stakeholders will be watching closely. Cuneta’s track record and the company’s strategic investment suggest that etaily is not just aiming for expansion but is poised to redefine the dynamics of digital commerce in the region. With a keen understanding of local consumer behavior and a focus on technology-driven solutions, etaily aims to become a preferred partner for brands and businesses looking to thrive in the digital age.
For professionals in digital marketing and eCommerce, keeping an eye on etaily could offer insights into successful growth strategies and the impact of leadership on operational success. As the company navigates this critical juncture, the lessons learned may serve as a playbook for others in the industry seeking to enhance their market presence and competitive edge.
