Celebrating innovation in retail…

Mission led, e-commerce/digital business builder and leader, guides by values, purpose driven and passionate. Unafraid of using culture, technology and logistics to disrupt existing thought patterns and do things in a different way. As CFO then CEO at ASOS, grew turnover to £4bn from £200m and transformed the e-commerce fashion landscape. Founder Trustee of the ASOS Foundation, helping raise c£10m breaking down barriers for young people in fashion and tech. member of the Variety Club Rugby Golf Legends Committee raising c£2m. Voted Top 5 most influential retailer in Fashion (Retail Week), highly numerate, number 3 excel rated CFO & CEO. Always restless, always looking for product, brand, tech and customer opportunities.
Aim listed Online purely fashion business, founded in 200, now trading in 200 territories. the largest fashion brand never to have a store. Employing c13k people world-wide, t/o £4bn. ASOS is a purpose driven, mission led organisation guided by values, aware of its role in customer lives and its responsibility to the planet and people. ASOS has redefined global ecommerce fashion, its has driven growth through culture, technology, logistics and product. Its stocks 85k 1P products through the main site, 160k though the ASOS marketplace and delivers 6-5k new products a week. 26m social media followers. As CEO grew sales from £1.2bn to £4bn. Profits grown line to £193m. Appointed CEO in April 2009, when ASOS had 178 people, t/o £165m (20% International (£35m)) delivering PBT £14m, market cap £300m. As CFO t/o grew to £975m (60% Intn) delivering PBT £47m. Appointed Chief Operating Officer for a year, during which t/o grew to £1.2bn.
Luminar: A FTSE 250 Leisure business. Market cap c£400m. Uk’s leading operator of late night venues (>100 units and 6000 people). Transformed in response to challenging market and regulatory conditions. Led 80 people across accounting & finance, tax, treasury, IT, Procurement, IR, property, audit/ business risk, developing strategic capability and improving operational efficiency.
Matalan Retail Limited: A FTSE 250 UK based value retailer with 180 stores, 5.5m soft of retail space, 13000 team members and £1.1bn t/o. Joined when turnover was £590m from 86 stores. led finance through rapid expansion (fastest growing retail business in 1998/99 ) Held increasingly broad and senior change and finance leadership roles, ultimately Executive Director , responsible for a team of 250 people.
KPMG – from trainee to Senior manager in Business transformation, working in Corporate Recovery, Transaction Services and Consultancy.

Nick is also a member of the Retail Sector Council, was a trustee of the ASOS Foundation, Ambassador for the RetailTrust and Advisor to the Anti-Slavery Collective.

Rory Hugill is the senior innovation portfolio manager at Pangaia, the material science-focused fashion brand that received B Corp certification in 2022. A former ‘sneakerhead’, Rory is working to transform the fashion industry from its linear model to a circular Good Fashion approach that is regenerative and restorative for nature.

The CIO of River Island, Simon Pakenham-Walsh has 25 years’ experience of technical strategy, delivery and leadership across several commercial and public sector industries. He has led enterprise-sized technology departments involving internal and external resources and delivered large multi-supplier, high revenue generating programmes for several large organisations.

Until recently the CEO of Next Beauty, Amanda Scott is an experienced CEO with a demonstrated history of working in the retail industry. Amanda was at the helm of the retail giant’s beauty arm for almost five years, where she spearheaded its initial steps into the world of premium beauty. Amanda has a wealth of experience in the beauty and retail sectors and prior to Next she was chief executive of Fabled by Marie Claire, a start up venture in partnership with Ocado , and 15 years with John Lewis during their transformation years.

Director of Digital, COS

CTO, Monsoon Accessorize

Creative strategist , Konsort Social

As the VP Digital IT, Customer and Marketing at Burberry, Peter Goggin leads a team of over 100 IT professionals in delivering innovative and customer-centric solutions across multiple channels and regions. Adopting agile principles, Peter enables his team to collaborate effectively, adapt to changing requirements, and deliver value to the business and the end-users. With over 25 years of experience, David has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the retail and FMCG sectors. He is passionate about creating a culture of innovation, excellence, and continuous improvement within the organisation.

Yasmin Topia is the Founder and CEO of Sociate AI “The World’s Fastest Learning AI for Fashion Fashion Shopping.” Yasmin is a serial deeptech entrepreneur (previous ventures backed by Microsoft, Jaguar Landrover and Silicon Valley VCs) working with leading AI scientists, ahead of academia to create the world’s most engaging, fastest learning fashion AI for the new paradigm in online shopping. Sociate AI lets customers find their style and break fashion trends from Social Media and the Fashion World on your platform, the moment they happen, increasing sales conversions by up to 243% using the speed of AI, and eradicates the need for manual tagging or merchandising. Unlocking a true revolution in ecommerce, Sociate AI lets every single one of your customers talk to you, tell you exactly what they want and understand them-instantly combining what customers they say with personalisation data and real time fashion authority whilst ending the reliance on metadata or tags for search and discoverability.

CMO, Konsort Social

 As Head of Customer Care at ME+EM Ltd, I lead a dedicated team committed to delivering exceptional service support and styling advice to our valued customers. At ME+EM, a renowned luxury, women’s fashion brand, I focus on customer satisfaction and operational efficiency, leveraging data-driven insights to remove pain points and drive initiatives that enhance the customer experience and build lasting relationships. I am dedicated to ensuring that every interaction with ME+EM reflects our brand’s commitment to quality and excellence.

Richard is Chief Executive Officer of Retail Economics, an independent economics research consultancy focused on the consumer and retail industry. He was voted as a Top Ten Voice for Linked for sharing his insights on the retail industry, has been named a top retail influencer by ReThink Retail, a top 100 retail influencer by Retail Tech Innovation Hub and also appeared in the final of The Apprentice as one of Lord Sugars advisors.

 He also sits on the Strategic Advisory Board at the University of East Anglia’s School of Economics, ranked in the top 10 departments in Economics in the UK. Richard has a wealth of experience in data analytics, retail insight, economics and consumer research

With over 15 years in logistics and supply chain, Tia is the Vice President of eCommerce Business Development at DHL. She leads the strategic development and implementation of ecommerce strategies across the UK and Ireland. Tia drives innovation, creates value for customers, and leads a team focused on new business and exceptional service. Known for her strategic vision, she leverages technology to deliver cutting-edge solutions. Tia is committed to sustainability and social responsibility, making a significant impact at DHL.

Natalie is the Managing Director for eCommerce and Retail at DHL, overseeing a team of over 12,000 professionals delivering omnichannel logistics services for top UK retailers. Joining DHL in January 2019 as VP for Home Delivery, she managed large item delivery networks. In 2022, she took on contracts with Sainsbury’s. Promoted to her current role in January 2023, Natalie focuses on innovation and customer partnerships, driving DHL’s eCommerce and retail operations. Her leadership ensures DHL delivers outstanding logistics solutions.

Stu Hill, CEO of DHL eCommerce UK, leads a dedicated team delivering exceptional service both domestically and internationally. With senior roles at ASOS, John Lewis, and FarFetch, where he was SVP and VP of Logistics, Stu optimized supply chain operations. His extensive retail and logistics background provides a unique perspective on logistics.

At DHL eCommerce UK, Stu’s leadership reflects his commitment to top-notch service, operational excellence, and driving growth in the ever-evolving e-commerce landscape. He deeply understands customer needs and excels in navigating logistics complexities.

Lizzie is the Customer Director at B&Q, the UK’s leading home improvement and garden retailer. She is passionately dedicated to creating a superior customer experience by harnessing the power of data to drive personalisation and enhance customer loyalty. With a rich background in retail, e-commerce, and financial services, Lizzie’s unwavering love for data, analytics, and customer-centric strategies resonates deeply. Her expertise has consistently delivered impactful insights and innovative solutions that propel business growth.

Mark Ross is the person you go to when you need to win on TikTok. Founder of Konsort Social, a specialist TikTok agency helping some of the fastest-growing DTC brands, he has experience covering all areas of the platform. From leading the new wave of social commerce with TikTok Shop, managing millions of dollars in ad spend, and even being a content creator himself. You’ll want to hear the latest, secret, and behind-the-scenes insights Mark has to offer at RetailJam 2024.

Ross Arnone is the Head of Product at Tesco Labs, a technology innovation team, focused on creating the future of retail, to positively impact customers, communities and the planet.  Prior to his current role, Ross worked across numerous start-ups in the education-technology industry. Creating, launching and scaling products in different global markets. He is passionate about human behaviour and how technology can impact the world. 

Maria Hollins is Chief Executive of Ann Summers, and over the past four years has steered the iconic multi-channel retailer through a remarkable transformation. Joining as a commercial consultant in July 2018, she rapidly ascended to Joint Managing Director in February 2019 and sole Managing Director in February 2022. With over 30 years of retail experience, Maria’s leadership has revitalised Ann Summers, optimising product offerings, channel experiences, tech-led transformations, corporate social responsibility, and colleague engagement, driving both present and future commercial success.

Ghanasham, with over 20 years in Data and AI, serves as Head of Data Science at BT Group. In this cross-cutting role within BT Group’s Digital unit, he leads a team of data science experts, contributing to customer value through data and AI. Ghanasham’s background includes roles at Consumer Association (Which?), Virgin Media, and Automobile Association (AA), focusing on customer analytics and marketing domains to enhance customer experience and optimise marketing ROI. Holding a Master of Science in Operational Research, he plays a pivotal role in BT’s large-scale digital transformation.

Sara spearheads the acceleration of the company’s positive business strategy for its sports, outdoor, and lifestyle brands. With a background in regulatory affairs and experience in sustainability and CSR within the petroleum industry, Sara is committed to addressing sustainability issues. She is passionate about organisational change, particularly in developing unconventional leadership and finding new ways for businesses to contribute to their broader environment. Sara is dedicated to Pentland’s commitment to taking action for people and the planet.

Ciaran has a track record of scaling consumer businesses.  He has been part of the executive teams at ME+EM, The Cotswold Company, and Long Tall Sally, all achieving successful exits.  During his 17-years’ experience, he has worked across all aspects of marketing and e-commerce disciplines from digital marketing and CRM to brand development and analytics.  He is currently Growth Director at DTC luxury fashion brand, ME+EM, where sales have increased 10x in the last five years. 

Sam has a breadth of experience across Commercial, Customer and Retail and is currently Acting Chief Customer Officer at Asda, after joining in March 2021 as Vice President for Own Brand. She spent her early career honing her skills at Sainsbury’s and B&Q, before embarking on a 12-year journey with Waitrose. Sam has held various leadership roles, including positions across Customer, Own Brand and Product Development, Commercial, Merchandising Operations, and Transformation.

Adele, Finisterre’s Head of Positive Impact, guides the brand’s sustainability strategy and oversees the Finisterre Foundation. Formerly part of the product team, she managed the development of sustainable apparel. In 2020, Adele led Finisterre’s B Corp recertification, aiming to enhance the company’s positive impact. Born from the needs of British surfers, Finisterre is a B Corp certified outdoor clothing company, crafting enduring wear for a sea-inspired life, marking the first in the UK.

David is a versatile technology reporter, presenter, and consumer advocate, contributing to TV, print, and online platforms. His expertise spans cyber security, online safety, scams, mobile technology, telecoms, and enterprise tech. David’s career originated in the tech industry, where he led IT transformation projects for major companies like IBM, Reuters, and Dell. Over the past decade, he’s been the resident technology expert for BBC Rip Off Britain and has exposed cyber scams on programs such as Watchdog, Crimewatch, Morning Live, The One Show, and discussed the impact of technologies on our lives for Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch.

Paul serves as the Director of Technology Operations at River Island, a leading high street fashion retailer in the UK. Paul oversees the company’s technology operations, including IT infrastructure, systems architecture, data management, and security. With over 20 years of experience in technology, he is known for his ability to identify new opportunities to leverage technology to enhance customer experiences and improve business processes.

Emma Keller is the Head of Sustainability for the UK and Ireland at Nestlé, the largest food and beverage company in the world. Previously working at the World Wildlife Fund, Emma has a desire to “drive change from the inside” and empower employees with a regeneration-first mindset, as key to sustainable innovation. Her remit is to deliver change at the scale Nestlé requires. She is an advocate of “radical action across our whole value chain”, which includes switching to renewable energy in factories and offices, new packaging solutions, and regenerative agriculture practices.

As the Director of Ethics and Sustainability at John Lewis Partnership, Marija leads the environmental and social initiatives vital for realising the company’s purpose of ‘For a happier world.’ Joining in 2021, she brings over 20 years of sustainability experience in retail, finance, and FMCG sectors. Marija is dedicated to transforming the food system, preserving nature, and promoting responsible consumerism. In 2022, the Partnership reaffirmed its commitment to protecting nature, unveiling a plan for nature with new commitments to address biodiversity loss urgently.

Zac is head of sustainability at organic veg box company Riverford, where he is leading the company’s Planet Action programme of projects to tackle the climate crisis, encourage biodiversity and invest in the future of sustainable farming. He has an MSc in Food Security and Sustainable Agriculture where he studied agroforestry systems and soil health, and in his spare time he is a director at The Living Projects CIC, a community and education focussed regenerative land management project. 

Robert is head of the Currys Decision Sciences Team, identifying where advanced analytics, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence techniques can drive change in long-term strategy and day-to-day trading.

Virginia is an experienced leader in eCommerce and digital transformation, currently responsible for the digital transformation and acceleration of B&Q.  With a rich background spanning fashion to home improvement, she previously served as Commercial Director at Jigsaw Clothing and Head of Digital at John Lewis. Virginia, a trailblazer since 2007, initiated and expanded New Look’s online business. Committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, she advocates for women’s empowerment, establishing mentoring circles to propel women into senior roles. Passionate about innovation and growth, Virginia thrives in intricate environments, pushing boundaries for enhanced customer experiences.

Emilie is a passionate and committed Digital, eCommerce and CRM Director with 17 years of experience driving profitable growth. Currently leading a team of 45 across eCommerce operations, digital & social media, data analytics, customer care and design at Clarins. 

Nicola aka ‘The Countess of Cocoa’ is UKI Head of Marketing at Tony’s Chocolonely, the chocolate makers on a serious mission to end modern slavery and child labour in the chocolate industry. Nicola has 12 years of marketing and innovation experience from time spent at Diageo, startup CocoPro and Tony’s. Her favourite Tony’s product is their new milk chocolate & marshmallow Littl’ Bits.

Tom is responsible for the use of data to accelerate customer and digital growth across Kingfisher’s European retail banners of B&Q, Castorama, Brico Depot, Screwfix and Koçtaş. To achieve this, Tom is establishing brand new data science, machine learning, analytics and data platform capabilities at scale.