In a recent conversation with Prisila, a correspondent from Asia Business Outlook Magazine, Ahmed discussed the optimization of e-commerce operations for efficiency and scalability. As the head of Logistics, Digital Payments, and Customer/Seller experience at Daraz for over a decade, Ahmed Tanveer highlighted the company’s expansion in Pakistan and the establishment of key logistics verticals.
Addressing the development and implementation of operational strategies, Ahmed emphasized the significance of user experience, scalability, and efficiency, especially in markets where e-commerce is still evolving. He stressed the need for strategies grounded in thorough research and aligned with long-term goals, drawing insights from the guidance of Daraz’s parent company, Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group.
Regarding handling fluctuations in demand and market dynamics, Ahmed discussed the importance of agility in e-commerce. He highlighted the role of cross-functional teams, stakeholder engagement, and automation, such as the collaboration with Alibaba’s logistics arm, Cainiao, to establish Smart Distribution Centers. The integration of smart technologies increased sorting capacity and reduced errors during peak demand periods like the 11.11 mega campaign.
On cultivating a culture of innovation and ongoing improvement, Ahmed underscored the importance of a learning-oriented environment where failures are seen as opportunities. He emphasized the need for psychological safety, enabling teams to try new ideas and learn from them.
Finally, Ahmed addressed the delicate balance between speed and agility, quality, and compliance in e-commerce operations. He emphasized that achieving this balance is crucial for long-term success, requiring a collective understanding across all levels of the organization. Setting up strategies, objectives, and performance indicators that prioritize the right balance ensures that everyone strives toward achieving these goals.
