Tractor Supply’s Rob Mills on the CIO as chief growth officer

Rob Mills has been instrumental in driving Tractor Supply Co.’s rapid growth, profitability, and world-class customer experience. Mills joined Tractor Supply a decade ago as its CIO, and within four years, his role, influence, and impact had expanded significantly.

Now, as executive vice president and chief technology, digital, and corporate strategy officer, Mills has cemented himself as a key business leader at the $14 billion rural lifestyle retailer, which has come a long way since its humble beginning in 1938 as a mail-order tractor parts business. The company now employs more than 50,000 team members and operates more than 2,200 stores in 49 states.

Mills joined me on a recent episode of the Tech Whisperers podcast to discuss his leadership journey and impressive track record as a business-, tech-, and customer-savvy executive. Afterwards, we spent some time focusing on the various ways he and his teams have helped orchestrate business growth. What follows is that conversation, edited for length and clarity.