Retail Relates
Paula, Gautham & Rich
'Retail Relates' is not just a podcast; it's a journey into the heart of retail and commerce. Our episodes traverse the path from traditional marketplaces to digital platforms, highlighting the successes, trials, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. We're conversing with those shaping the industry—from the front lines to behind the scenes, the creative minds to the global strategists - offering a diverse 360-degree perspective. We're revealing the relationships and personal narratives that make retail engaging and accessible. 'Retail Relates' is an invitation to explore the world's interconnectedness through the lens of retail, encouraging listeners to discover the personal journeys and stories of those who drive innovation and unite us across cultures and continents.
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Top 10 Retail Relates Episodes
Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Retail Relates episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Retail Relates for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Retail Relates episode by adding your comments to the episode page.
10/03/24 • 47 min
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Ever wondered how a global retail strategist balances the fine line between human touch and cutting-edge technology? Join us as we sit down with Liza, the dynamic co-founder of Retail Strategy Group, to uncover secrets from her illustrious career spanning iconic brands like Harrods, Ralph Lauren, and Nike. From her early dreams in fashion design to her pivotal roles in buying and marketing, Liza's journey is a masterclass in perseverance and adaptability. Discover her unique approach to retail that prioritizes meaningful change over mere noise, and learn how her extensive travels and global experiences have shaped her visionary outlook.
In this episode, we dive into the nitty-gritty of Liza's career milestones, from navigating failures like a sleepwear line at Club Monaco to mastering the art of customer service and brand localization. Gain valuable insights into building and testing retail trends, and understand the crucial balance between listening to customer feedback and maintaining fundamental business practices. Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring entrepreneur, Liza's candid reflections offer a treasure trove of lessons and strategies for success in the ever-evolving retail landscape.
But there's more—Liza opens up about the unique challenges faced by women of color in the retail industry and the importance of diversity and inclusion. Hear her inspiring stories of overcoming discouraging advice and transforming negative feedback into powerful motivation. With organizations like the Women of Color Retail Alliance playing a pivotal role, Liza emphasizes how diverse recruitment practices can drive business performance and innovation. Don't miss this empowering conversation that not only highlights Liza's professional achievements but also her passion for promoting a more inclusive and dynamic retail industry.
Liza's Bio:
Liza Amlani is the Principal and Co-Founder of Retail Strategy Group. The firm works with retailers and brands, helping them improve profitability and organizational effectiveness.
Clients span apparel, footwear, luxury, retail tech, and more. Liza is a respected voice and is cited in Forbes, Bloomberg, Chain Store Age, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, Sourcing Journal, and Footwear News.
Liza has been recognized by Rethink Retail as a “Top Retail Expert of 2024.” This honor is given to a select group of experts chosen from a group of 400 nominees.
Before founding Retail Strategy Group, Liza was the merchandising expert in Accenture’s retail strategy practice. Before that, she spent 20+ in retail with companies including Ralph Lauren, Club Monaco, Sporting Life and more.
She brings a wealth of global insight to her clients given the number of countries in which she has resided – Liza has moved 29 times in her life from Canada to the UK to Africa. Today, New York City is home as she teaches at the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizaamlani/
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08/29/24 • 41 min
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Curious about what it takes to thrive in the retail industry? Get ready to hear from Matt Salmonson, Head of Inventory and Forecasting at Quince, as he shares his journey from a college job at a local department store to holding senior positions at iconic brands like Gap & Restoration Hardware. Matt’s fascination with data and technology has driven his career, leading him to become a champion for analytics and customer-centric strategies. This episode is packed with Matt’s insights on inventory management, forecasting, and the future of retail.
Learn how Quince’s unique business model is revolutionizing the retail landscape by delivering luxury products at affordable prices directly from manufacturers to customers. Matt explains the importance of maintaining inventory accuracy, fulfilling customer promises, and leveraging customer feedback to create a seamless shopping experience. Discover how data-driven planning, robust analytics, and a genuine dedication to customer satisfaction can lead to sustained retail success.
We also tackle the challenges of balancing customer-focused strategies with business objectives, such as margin goals and technological investments. Matt shares his thoughts on key metrics like customer retention and acquisition costs and offers valuable advice on the diverse roles within the retail sector. Wrapping up with some personal anecdotes and practical tips, Matt’s blend of humor, wisdom, and common sense makes this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving world of retail and analytics.
MATT SALMONSON BIOGRAPHY:
Matt Salmonson is an accomplished senior retail executive who has worked for some of the most recognized brands in the world. Over the past 30 years, Matt has served on the management teams of iconic American brands such as Banana Republic, Old Navy, Restoration Hardware, and Williams Sonoma. He has led teams in inventory optimization, sourcing and production, strategy, finance, advanced analytics, and technology. Matt has also managed the operational and technology strategies for expansion into new markets, including China and Europe, for multiple brands. Currently, he is the Head of Forecasting and Inventory Operations for Quince, a rapidly growing Series B startup that is fundamentally shifting how products get to customers.
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09/26/24 • 34 min
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What happens when you mix high-energy marketing genius with raw authenticity? You get Doug Zarkin. Today, we're bringing you an inspiring conversation with Doug Zarkin, the marketing mastermind behind heavy-hitting brands like Pearl Vision and Victoria's Secret. Doug opens up about navigating the peaks and valleys of his career journey, from high school rejections to pivotal career decisions. He takes us behind the scenes of writing his book, "Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone," sharing his unique blend of art and science in marketing and how his education at George Washington University shaped his path. Doug's stories and insights are for aspiring marketers and anyone looking to make a meaningful impact.
Are loyalty programs transforming customer experiences or just another gimmick? Discover Doug's perspective on the evolving landscape of brand loyalty and innovation as we discuss standout programs like Marriott's Bonvoy and Delta's service enhancements. Doug shares how Marriott's flexible check-out times and Delta’s improved service offerings are setting new standards in customer satisfaction. We also touch on the balance between technological innovation and practical customer service solutions, highlighting the future of CRM systems in creating more human-centric business practices.
Authenticity and vulnerability in leadership? Yes, please. Doug’s candid discussion on company culture offers a fresh perspective on first impressions during the interview process and the role of real-time feedback. From self-deprecating leadership to the quirks of daily life, Doug's anecdotes reveal the importance of balancing professional and personal life with humor and relatability. He leaves us with powerful advice on embracing authenticity and using setbacks as stepping stones for success. Tune in for a treasure trove of wisdom from a marketing leader who truly walks the talk.
Doug Zarkin Biography:
Doug Zarkin is a renowned Chief Marketing Officer celebrated for his strategic acumen in brand revitalization, team leadership, and driving significant growth across multiple sectors. With a career that began in advertising, Doug co-founded G-WHiZ!, Grey Advertising’s division focused on youth, entertainment, and lifestyle marketing, crafting campaigns that captivated audiences nationwide. His tenure at Avon Products marked the launch of the “Mark.” brand, achieving $118 million in revenue within 18 months. At Victoria’s Secret PINK, as Vice President of Marketing, he transformed it into a $400 million brand, showcasing his ability to scale brands significantly. Doug’s impactful roles at global apparel giants Warnaco and Kellwood further underscored his marketing prowess. Doug is currently the Chief Customer Officer at Good Feet Holdings and previously served as the Chief Marketing Officer for Luxottica’s Pearle Vision, where he led a transformative brand overhaul that not only changed the company's market perception from discount to quality care but also sustained double-digit profit growth over eight years. This repositioning helped place Pearle Vision at the top of Entrepreneur’s Top 500 Franchise list. His leadership has earned him multiple Effie and Clio awards and a place in a Harvard Business School case study on brand revival. Doug is also the author of "Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone," encapsulating his expertise in crafting influential brand narratives and fostering deep consumer connections.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougzarkin/To purchase "Moving Your Brand Out of The Friend Zone", visit:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CKD7F4S4
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Making Retail Relatable: The Inspiration behind 'Retail Relates' with Paula, Gautham & Rich
Retail Relates
08/15/24 • 38 min
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To kick off our first season, in this episode, we introduce ourselves and discuss our experiences, successes and failures, lessons learned, and motivations. This is not highly edited or polished; it is real and hopefully relatable. We hope you enjoy this episode and stay with us through the journey. We have some incredible guests lined up that we hope you enjoy meeting and learning from.
What is 'Retail Relates?'
It is not just a podcast; it's a journey into the heart of retail and commerce. Our episodes traverse the path from traditional marketplaces to digital platforms, highlighting the successes, trials, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. We're conversing with those shaping the industry—from the front lines to behind the scenes, the creative minds to the global strategists - offering a diverse 360-degree perspective. We're revealing the relationships and personal narratives that make retail engaging and accessible. 'Retail Relates' is an invitation to explore the world's interconnectedness through the lens of retail, encouraging listeners to discover the personal journeys and stories of those who drive innovation and unite us across cultures and continents.
Retail Relates is hosted by Paula Gean, a tech leader who is passionate about building connected communities and telling stories; Gautham Vadakkapett, a marketing professor with a Ph.D. and a deep curiosity for the retail industry; and Rich Honiball, a retail executive who loves history and is inspired by diversity.
Why did we come together to start this podcast? Fame? Fortune? Occupy our spare time? Hardly! We came together with this combined goal.
"Our success is not measured by the number of conversations we have with industry leaders or the number of talented individuals we meet. It's about the impact we make. If even ONE person finds value in our platform and perspectives and decides to pursue retail as a career choice, we consider our efforts worthwhile. Every journey matters to us."
In this series of conversations, we look forward to talking with those driving the retail industry today from every vantage point, introducing you to the diversity of talent and experiences, and discovering how the essence of retail is not just in transactions but in the meaningful connections and relatable stories that energize the industry.
If you have feedback or ideas or want to connect with us, email us at [email protected].
In the meantime, thank you for tuning in, & enjoy!
Paula, Gautham, & Rich
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Navigating Global Retail Trends and Customer Behavior: A Conversation with Ghalia Boustani
Retail Relates
09/12/24 • 47 min
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Can European retailers teach their American counterparts a thing or two about customer service? Join us as we uncover insights from Ghalia Boustani, PhD, a leading retail expert based in Paris, who has a wealth of knowledge about the future of retail. From her early fascination with the industry to becoming a respected author and consultant, Ghalia's journey is nothing short of inspiring. In this episode, she shares her pivotal moments and critical questions that fueled her rise in the retail world.
Navigating the balance between human touch and technology, Ghalia discusses the common pitfalls that retailers face when they over-rely on tech solutions. She illustrates with real-life examples how poor integration can lead to negative customer experiences, such as failed QR code promotions. We also explore the differences between American and European retail practices, highlighting the significance of adapting strategies to local markets and maintaining basic customer service. Ghalia emphasizes the growing trend in Europe towards sustainable consumption and secondhand markets, setting a benchmark for future retail landscapes.
As we delve into the new metrics shaping retail success, Ghalia sheds light on the limitations of traditional KPIs and the necessity of adopting a holistic approach. From the challenges of measuring omni-channel strategies to integrating physical and digital experiences, this episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in the retail industry. For newcomers, Ghalia offers sage advice on the importance of hands-on experience, teamwork, and keeping a human-centric approach amidst the technological tide. Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation that promises to redefine your understanding of retail.
Ghalia's Bio:
Ghalia Boustani is a multifaceted professional with a diverse skill set encompassing retail consultancy, curation of insights, speaking, authorship, and podcast hosting. Her career in retail gained momentum within the dynamic landscape of the fashion industry, a journey she embarked upon in 2005. Over the years, Ghalia has forged close collaborations with various fashion brands, operating at both retail and management echelons.
Her expertise is centered around ephemeral retail formats, the creation of captivating physical store atmospheres, and a deep understanding of consumer behaviors within omnichannel contexts. At the strategic level, Ghalia excels in guiding brands through transformative processes, contributing to the evolution of their development strategies. On an operational level, she actively engages in formulating procedures, crafting comprehensive training manuals, and conducting impactful team member training sessions.
Ghalia holds a Ph.D. from the prestigious “École Supérieure des Affaires” in Lebanon, a master’s degree from the “London College of Fashion” in London, and a Bachelor of Arts (hons) from the esteemed “Notre Dame University”, along with a diploma from the “École Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode”. Her academic pursuits manifest in rich research and publications, covering topics ranging from traditional and ephemeral retail to fashion management and customer experiences. Her influence extends globally, as she brings her wealth of knowledge to various educational institutions and business schools in cities such as Beirut, Istanbul, London, and Paris. Since 2011, she has been actively involved in teaching marketing and retail, participating in over 25 conferences and webinars. Through these platforms, Ghalia consistently shares her insights and contributes to the discourse shaping the future of retail.
Connect at:
https://linktr.ee/gboustani
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Revolutionizing The Customer Journey & Experience: A Conversation With Melissa Gonzalez
Retail Relates
09/05/24 • 44 min
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What happens when you mix Wall Street savvy with creative retail innovation? In this episode, Melissa Gonzalez, principal at MG2, takes us through her extraordinary career journey. From navigating the aftermath of 9-11 to pioneering the integration of physical and digital retail spaces, Melissa’s story is a testament to resilience and visionary thinking. We'll uncover how she transitioned from finance to spearheading transformative retail strategies and working with major brands to reinvent consumer experiences.
Ever wondered how shifting from a hands-on founder to a visionary coach can revolutionize your business? Melissa breaks it down, emphasizing the importance of understanding where your highest value lies and the evolving landscape of consumer behavior. Younger generations are redefining expectations, pushing the move from product-centric to experience-led retail design. Hear Melissa’s insights on how intuitive technology is becoming crucial for creating seamless, engaging customer journeys, and why pop-up stores are not just a trend but a powerful tool for market testing and consumer connection.
COVID-19 has made brands rethink their real estate strategies, and Melissa provides thought-provoking examples like Dick’s Sporting Goods and Nordstrom, which are leading the way with unique, localized flagship experiences. She also shares personal stories about mentors who've influenced her path, offering sage advice for students and professionals alike. Whether it’s the wisdom of curiosity, the power of mentorship, or the strategic use of technology, Melissa’s insights promise to inspire and educate, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about the future of retail.
Melissa Gonzalez Biography:
Melissa Gonzalez is a principal at MG2, a leading global design and architecture firm, where she heads the MG2 Advisory Group. With a robust background as a Wall Street executive and seasoned entrepreneur, Melissa has become a key advisor to some of the fastest-growing direct-to-consumer companies and well-established brands. Her expertise lies in blending innovative strategies with actionable insights from concept through implementation, continually pushing the boundaries of experiential retail environments. Melissa and her team have pioneered the integration of physical and digital retail spaces, creating cutting-edge concepts that enhance consumer engagement for major brands like Nordstrom, Victoria’s Secret, and Kizik. She is the author of "The Pop-up Paradigm: How Brands Build Human Connections in a Digital Age" and has produced over 200 brick-and-mortar experiences nationwide. These projects focus on creating immersive moments that drive ROI and allow clients to convey compelling stories to their audience. Her significant contributions to the field have garnered prestigious recognitions, including being named one of the Top 10 Executives in New York City to Watch by the New York Business Journal, one of WWD’s “25 Most Influential Women Leaders of 2022”, and consistently recognized as one of the leading ‘Women In Design’ and ‘Top Retail Design Influencers of the Year’. Additionally, Melissa is a prolific speaker and has been featured in publications like The New York Times and Forbes. She is the creator and host of the Retail Refined podcast, which explores future in-store technologies and has spoken at major industry events such as Shoptalk and NRF’s Retail’s Big Show. Melissa finds inspiration in adventurous activities outside her professional pursuits, such as skydiving from 10,000 feet.
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08/22/24 • 39 min
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What pivotal decisions shape a successful career in marketing? Join us for an enlightening conversation with the esteemed Margaret Molloy, a global CMO and marketing expert, as she shares her fascinating career journey. Margaret discusses the bold choices that led her to success, including her move to the United States to earn an MBA and her recent decision to leave a long-term position in search of new opportunities. She emphasizes the importance of stepping out of her comfort zone and the invaluable role mentors have played in her life, likening them to an advisory board that provides diverse perspectives and support.
Discover how marketing can drive sustainability through powerful storytelling and effective communication. Margaret explains the synergy between brand marketing and performance marketing, highlighting how a strong brand ensures discoverability when consumers are ready to purchase. We also delve into the evolving skill set required of marketers today, from mastering new technological tools to developing essential soft skills like perceptive listening and building cohesive teams. This conversation underscores the importance of both strategic and tactical growth in the ever-changing marketing landscape.
Margaret also shares lessons learned from humility and innovation, recounting a personal anecdote about the refreshing perspective gained from a more startup-oriented mindset. We explore her passion project, #WearingIrish, which showcases Irish fashion designers and taught her valuable lessons about partnerships and creativity. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal Margaret's personal preferences and early entrepreneurial experiences, offering a well-rounded and inspiring narrative that intertwines personal heritage with professional passion. Don’t miss this insightful episode filled with practical advice and inspiration for leaders and marketers alike.
TO PURCHASE HER SON EMMET'S BOOK ON "DREW DISCOVERS DIABETES " - YOU CAN FIND IT AT: https://a.co/d/iLPn8HT
HE IS EAGER TO GET IT TO AS MANY FAMILIES, EDUCATORS, AND NURSES AS POSSIBLE.
Margaret Molloy Biography:
Margaret Molloy has carved a notable brand management and marketing career, prominently serving as the Global CMO for Siegel+Gale for over a decade. Under her leadership, the branding agency flourished as she hosted hundreds of CMOs and thousands of guests worldwide at various industry conferences and private events. Margaret also shares her insights and the experiences of other marketing leaders on her podcast, "How CMOs Commit." An esteemed LinkedIn Top Voice and The Drum B2B Marketer of the Year, she is also recognized as a Fellow of the Marketing Society. Educated at Harvard Business School and the University of Ulster, with studies at La Universidad de Valladolid, Spain, Margaret’s academic background is as diverse as her professional experience. She balances her high-profile career in Manhattan with being a mom to two teenage boys. A native of Ireland, Margaret's international perspective and expertise make her a sought-after advisor and speaker in the global marketing community.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaretmolloy/
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09/19/24 • 44 min
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What if retail could be more than just a job? Join us on Retail Relates as we chat with Ron Thurston, co-founder of Ossy and best-selling author of Retail Pride, to uncover the secrets of turning a retail career into a passion-driven journey. Ron's inspiring stories, from pioneering showrooming at Bonobos to redefining field leadership at Apple, provide invaluable insights for anyone eager to learn from a true industry innovator. Discover how emotional connection, empathy, and authentic leadership can transform not just your career but the entire retail experience.
We dive into the philosophy of strengths-based leadership, stressing the importance of leveraging individual talents over correcting weaknesses. Ron sheds light on how empathy, curiosity, and focus can create effective leaders in the chaotic retail environment. We also discuss how AI is revolutionizing retail by automating mundane tasks, freeing up more time for meaningful customer interactions and team engagement. It’s all about finding joy in your work and working for companies that recognize and value your strengths.
Finally, we explore the profound impact of building authentic retail connections and the vital role of trust between frontline employees and corporate leadership. Ron's journey across the country, living in an RV and meeting proud retail workers, emphasizes the essential role retail plays in communities, especially in smaller towns. We wrap up with a fun rapid-fire segment, revealing Ron's personal favorites and celebrating the joy of a retail career. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice for anyone passionate about retail.
Ron's Biography:
Ron Thurston's life mission is to celebrate, elevate, and empower the people and spirit of the retail industry. His passion is evident in his over three decades of experience leading retail stores and operations for top American brands such as Gap, West Elm, Apple, Tory Burch, Bonobos, and Saint Laurent. Most recently, he served as Vice President of Stores at Intermix, where he honed an extensive skill set in retail strategy, management, and innovation.
Ron is not just a retail leader but also the bestselling author of "Retail Pride," an indispensable guide for accelerating careers in retail. With over 25 years of leadership experience with prominent fashion brands, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise. He is consistently recognized as one of the most influential people in the retail industry. As the host of the RETAIL IN AMERICA podcast and tour, Ron traveled across the nation in an Airstream trailer during 2022 and 2023 to uncover and highlight remarkable stories and individuals in retail. He also serves on the advisory boards of rapidly growing retail tech companies, including Ometria, Butterfly, and YOOBIC, lending his expertise to drive their success. He gives back as a Goodwill NY/NJ board of directors member.
In 2024, Ron co-founded OSSY, a forward-thinking retail recruiting agency that addresses the industry's hiring and recruiting challenges. This venture reinforces Ron’s unwavering commitment to retail.
Follow Ron at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rthurston/
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Balancing Art, Science, and Leadership in Retail: A Conversation with Deirdre Fitzgerald
Retail Relates
10/10/24 • 44 min
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Discover the compelling journey of Deirdre Fitzgerald, President of International for Knitwell Group, as she takes you through her inspiring career in retail. From her initial days at Bloomingdale's through her transformative experiences at New Balance, Deirdre's path is marked by pivotal moments that shaped her into the leader she is today. Tune in to hear how a passion for retail blossomed from her background in English literature to her dynamic roles across cosmetics and men's apparel confirmed her calling in this vibrant industry.
Unearth the delicate interplay of art and science that defines retail merchandising today. Deirdre shares her expertise on balancing intuition with data-driven insights, offering a fresh take on making informed product and consumer decisions. As traditional training programs like Bloomingdale's fade, we explore new strategies for nurturing talent and the critical role of localization in global markets. Discover the unique challenges faced by merchants and the evolving role they play in shaping the future of retail.
Gain strategic insights into navigating the retail landscape with a focus on consumer behavior, inventory management, and the balance between online and brick-and-mortar experiences. Deirdre generously imparts career advice, underscoring the importance of long-term thinking, effective leadership, and embracing failure as a powerful learning tool. Highlighting the value of mentorship and team development, she emphasizes the significance of personal growth, continuous learning, and the strength of individual relationships. Join us as we wrap up with Deirdre's refreshing perspective on leadership, life inspirations, and the camaraderie that fuels success in this ever-evolving industry.
Biography: DEIRDRE FITZGERALD
Deirdre FitzGerald is the President of International for KnitWell Group a dominant portfolio of women’s specialty retail brands including Ann Taylor, Chico’s, Lane Bryant, LOFT, Soma, Talbots, and White House Black Market, that together generate more than $6 Billion in sales annually. In her role Deirdre leads the development and implementation of growth strategies designed to expand the value and reach of the brands through strategic partnerships domestically and internationally.
Previously, Deirdre served as President of the Talbots brand, an iconic American apparel retailer with more than 500 stores across the United States as well as an online business that together generate more than $1.2 billion in sales annually. As President, in partnership with her leadership team, she created stability amidst the pandemic and restored financial growth and profitability to the brand.
Prior to Talbots, Deirdre spent seven years with New Balance where she served as the Executive Vice President of Global Apparel and Licensing. In her role she led the transformation of the Global Apparel design, Innovation, Product management, Merchandising, and Licensing teams, resulting in a period of unprecedented growth and profitability.
Earlier in her career Deirdre spent nearly a decade with the Talbots brand, ultimately serving as the Executive Vice President and General Merchandise Manager for Talbots and she also served as the Head of Men's Apparel at J. Crew and in various merchandising roles at Brooks Brothers. Deirdre began her career at Bloomingdales’ where she completed their executive training program.
Deirdre is committed to supporting women and is a member of the Global Board of Directors for Dress for Success, an organization dedicated to empowering women. She is also on the Advisory Board for the Hingham Historical Society and the Board of Directors for Repurpose for a Purpose.
Deirdre holds a BA in English Literature from
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11/14/24 • 50 min
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Join us for an inspiring journey with Theo Killion, a remarkable leader who transformed his life from a coal mining town in West Virginia to the pinnacle of retail success as a public company CEO. Theo’s story is a testament to resilience and adaptability, shaped by the profound influence of his grandparents and his early challenges at a prestigious New York private school. You'll uncover his rise through the ranks at Macy's, from a trainee to head of human resources, and his bold leap into new opportunities that defined his career. Immerse yourself in Theo’s world of retail wisdom, grounded in humility and the courage to embrace change.
Explore retail excellence and discover the foundational pillars that drive success: the customer experience, employee empowerment, and innovative product development. We reflect on Theo's shift from public school teaching to the retail industry, sharing transformative strategies that prioritize customer satisfaction and inclusivity. Delve into the integration of technology and AI in retail, reshaping supply chains and enhancing data recovery. Our discussion highlights inspiring leaders who've championed customer-centric approaches, showcasing how empathy and collaboration build high-performing teams.
Find inspiration through personal anecdotes and memorable experiences that illustrate quick decision-making and resilience. We celebrate transformative figures like Abraham Lincoln, Sam Walton, and others, drawing parallels between their humble beginnings and today’s retail success stories. Tune in to learn how these narratives shape the evolving landscape of retail, honoring modern-day leaders whose innovative visions have led to remarkable achievements.
Theo Killion's Biography
Theo Killion's career spans nearly five decades in the retail industry having served as a director for both public and private company boards of directors and in a variety of executive leadership roles for some of the most iconic retail brands in North America. Mr. Killion currently serves on the board of directors of Torrid Holdings Inc., a direct-to-consumer apparel and intimates brand, as well as Claire’s Stores, a jewelry and accessories retailer. He also previously served on the boards of directors of Tailored Brands, Inc., Libbey, Inc., Express, Inc. and The Zale Corporation. During his time as a retail executive, Mr. Killion served as Chief Executive Officer for The Zale Corporation and in a variety of other leadership positions for Tommy Hilfiger, Limited Brands, The Home Shopping Network and Macy’s.
Mr. Killion currently serves as a managing partner of the Sierra Institute, a Dallas based human resources consortium. In addition to his retail industry and corporate governance experience, Mr. Killion has deep expertise in all matters relating to human capital, including CEO succession planning, talent identification and leadership development, organizational design and effectiveness, building high-performance teams, and executive compensation and benefits. Mr. Killion is a member of the National Association of Corporate Directors. He is a Vice-Chairman of the non-profit A Better Chance program and a member of the Advisory Board of his alma mater, Tufts University.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Retail Relates have?
Retail Relates currently has 15 episodes available.
What topics does Retail Relates cover?
The podcast is about Retail, Branding, Marketing, College, Podcasts, Education and Business.
What is the most popular episode on Retail Relates?
The episode title 'Revolutionizing The Customer Journey & Experience: A Conversation With Melissa Gonzalez' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Retail Relates?
The average episode length on Retail Relates is 44 minutes.
How often are episodes of Retail Relates released?
Episodes of Retail Relates are typically released every 7 days.
When was the first episode of Retail Relates?
The first episode of Retail Relates was released on Aug 15, 2024.
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