About Us

The Retail AI Council is committed to empowering members to harness the potential of Artificial Intelligence by staying at the forefront of emerging trends and innovative solutions.

The Retail AI Council and our members recognize the transformative power of AI in the retail industry. As technology continues to evolve, it is essential for retailers to adapt and leverage AI to remain competitive in today’s dynamic marketplace. Our mission is to provide a collaborative platform where retailers can come together, exchange knowledge, and explore the vast possibilities offered by AI.

The Council brings together a diverse community of retailers, ranging from small independent businesses to large multinational corporations. By fostering a network of industry experts, thought leaders, and innovative startups, we aim to facilitate an environment of shared learning and collaboration. We believe that by pooling our collective wisdom and experiences, we can accelerate the adoption and application of AI technologies in the retail sector.

Retail AI Council is “retailer-led”. The all-retailer Council leadership will post requests for content on particular topics. Industry partner members will be encouraged to submit posts, white papers, research findings, podcasts, or any other format. That content will be posted on the website for all members to view. Council leadership will also invite true AI visionaries from the retail industry, academia, media, and the investment community to speak at Council events.

As a member of the Retail AI Council, you gain access to a wide range of resources and benefits. We provide regular updates on the latest AI trends, industry insights, and cutting-edge solutions through our curated content, webinars, and conferences. Our events feature prominent speakers and experts who share their expertise and practical advice on AI implementation strategies, use cases, and best practices.

Whether you are a seasoned industry veteran or an emerging retail entrepreneur, the Retail AI Council is here to support your AI journey. Together, we can unlock the full potential of AI, enabling retailers to enhance customer experiences, optimize operations, and gain a competitive edge in the ever-evolving retail landscape. Best of all, all membership is free!

Explore the Possibilities of Retail AI.

Join the Council today to embark on an exciting journey of AI-driven transformation in the retail industry. Sign up for our newsletters to receive updates, exclusive insights, and event invitations.

Council Leadership

The Retail AI Council is led by a distinguished group of retail industry veterans. Our leadership team includes:

Andrew Laudato

Co-Founder & Chair
Andrew Laudato
Vitamin Shoppe,
Chief Operating Officer

Co-Founder & Vice Chair
Jenna Posner
Solo Brands,
Chief Digital Officer

Executive Leadership Committee – Retailer Members

  • Co-Founder & Chair: Andrew Laudato, Vitamin Shoppe, Chief Operating Officer
  • Co-Founder & Vice Chair: Jenna Posner, Solo Brands, Chief Digital Officer
  • Prama Bhatt, Ulta Beauty, Chief Digital Officer
  • Shirley Gao, PACSUN, Chief Digital and Information Officer
  • Jeff Goethals, Centric Brands, Chief Information Officer
  • David Kastin, Bed Bath & Beyond, Chief Legal Officer
  • Beth McCormick, CAVA, Chief Information Officer
  • Steve Williams, Buff City Soap, Chief Technology Officer

Executive Leadership Committee – Industry Partner Members

  • Vicki Cantrell, Vendors in Partnership, Chief Executive Officer
  • Dave Finnegan, Reach Partners, Head of the Customer Experience Practice
  • Rob Garf, Salesforce, VP and GM, Retail
  • Cathy Hotka, Cathy Hotka & Associates, Principal

Want to get involved?

Interested in joining the Industry Partner Committee and taking a leadership role in shaping the retail industry? You can apply at https://retailaicouncil.com/industry-partner-committee/.