Navigating Industry Disruption: A Personal Reflection on the Future of eCommerce

As I approach my 30th birthday, I find myself in uncharted territory, pondering the future of my career in an industry that is undergoing rapid transformation. Having spent nearly 16 years immersed in the world of eCommerce—from my teenage years to my current role as Director of Partnerships—I’ve witnessed firsthand the growth and evolution of this dynamic sector. However, recent advancements in technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), have left me questioning where my path may lead in the next five years.

My journey began at the tender age of 14, working with various eCommerce agencies. Over time, I ascended through diverse positions, including Director of Project Management and Director of Operations. I’ve been fortunate enough to lead high-stakes projects, from web development and design to extensive SEO campaigns, with budgets ranging from $20,000 to over a million dollars. My experience has allowed me to spearhead initiatives in conversion rate optimization, user interface/user experience planning, and upsell strategies, enhancing my skills in this competitive marketplace.

However, the pace at which AI is infiltrating my industry is astonishing. A conversation with an old colleague at one of my former agencies revealed a dramatic shift: their once robust team of 25 copywriters has dwindled to just four, thanks to AI tools that now fill much of their previous workload. This agency, which was heavily reliant on SEO, has seen their billable revenue increase by $20,000 monthly, demonstrating the efficiency gained through these technologies. The automation of basic copywriting roles highlights a troubling trend—the potential for AI to replace junior positions entirely.

Similarly, another agency has opted to streamline their operations by transitioning from a US-based development team to a cost-effective team in Latin America. Relying on AI tools such as ChatGPT for communication through platforms like Jira and Slack further signals a shift towards automation that prioritizes efficiency over traditional employment structures.

It’s not that I foresee a total collapse of my industry, but the trajectory is clear. The integration of AI capabilities—e.g., generating websites from Figma designs or crafting complex code without a developer’s intervention—is fundamentally transforming how we do business. I’m witnessing the rise of AI in search and SEO, which seems poised to overhaul established practices in real time.

With uncertainty looming about the future of my industry, I’m currently pursuing my Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and considering pivoting to a leadership role in a