Michael Wilhite leads 84.51°’s customer data strategy focused on developing the data portfolio and scaled data assets to drive capabilities across the Kroger ecosystem. He leads analyst and product management teams responsible for the creation of analytic methodology for data capabilities, supporting a wide range of needs from strategic planning to merchandising execution. He also leads exploration and evaluation of data partnerships to drive data innovation. Prior to 84.51°, Michael served three years as Senior Vice President and General Manager of dunnhumby Ltd.’s India operations. During his seven years with dunnhumbyUSA, Michael played a critical role in growing the domestic business and has the distinction of becoming the first dunnhumbyUSA employee after its launch in partnership with The Kroger Co. in 2003. He was instrumental in the development of analytic capabilities for customer feedback, customer-centric pricing, promotion planning and loyalty. He also assisted in the establishment of dunnhumbyUSA’s first office in Atlanta and was responsible for revamping the company’s graduate recruitment program. Michael spent five years with Convergys Corporation’s Knowledge Management Services group and rose to the level of Senior Manager of Analytical Services, partnering with Fortune 500 companies. Michael obtained his doctorate in Social Psychology from the University of California Santa Barbara with an emphasis on decision-making processes, attitudes, and coping strategies. He graduated Summa Cum Laude from Wabash College in Indiana with a Bachelors degree in Liberal Arts.