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Owen Phelan
Head of Engineering at Zalando SE
Professional Background
Owen Phelan is a highly accomplished engineering leader and innovator in the e-commerce industry, currently serving as the Head of Engineering for Global Catalog at Zalando SE, one of the largest online fashion retailers in the world. His professional journey has been marked by a series of progressive roles within Zalando, where he has excelled at building and leading diverse teams that are integral to the design and operation of key merchandising systems. With an extensive career spanning multiple leadership positions, Owen has managed teams ranging from a few skilled graduates to large departments of over 50 professionals, including Principal Engineers, Data Scientists, Engineering Managers, and Technical Project Managers (TPMs).
In his leadership roles at Zalando, Owen has been instrumental in shaping the strategic direction of engineering efforts, overseeing intricate processes from scoping and design to program delivery, migrations, and operations. His ability to lead large-scale projects not only demonstrates his technical expertise but also highlights his commitment to fostering collaboration among talented individuals in the organization.
Education and Achievements
Owen Phelan holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science from University College Dublin. During his academic tenure, he specialized in cutting-edge topics such as recommender systems, search and retrieval technologies, and content personalization techniques. His deep dive into these areas of research not only contributed to his strong publication record but also laid the foundation for his successful career in technology and engineering. Owen's contributions to academia extend beyond publications, as he has engaged in numerous commercialization activities and submitted several patents that showcase his innovative approach to technology and problem-solving.
Career Highlights
- Head of Engineering, Global Catalog at Zalando SE: In this critical role, Owen drives engineering initiatives that enhance the company's merchandising capabilities, ensuring a seamless and engaging shopping experience for customers.
- Former Non-Executive Director at Zalando SE: Owen's insights as a board member added value to the corporate governance of Zalando, helping steer the organization towards strategic goals.
- Former Head of Engineering, Customer at Zalando SE: He successfully led efforts focused on improving customer experience through advanced engineering practices and technologies.
- Former Engineering Manager at Zalando SE: During his time as an Engineering Manager, Owen developed key systems and processes that contributed to the efficiency and effectiveness of the engineering department.
- Former CTO at Eagle Alpha: Owen's leadership as Chief Technology Officer at Eagle Alpha established a strong technology foundation for the company, focusing on innovation and growth in the fintech space.
Owen's strong leadership, combined with his extensive background in technology and engineering management, positions him as a prominent figure in the e-commerce sector. His career journey illustrates how academic rigor and practical application can converge to foster innovation and drive business growth in a fast-paced industry.
