NRF Foundation celebrates five leaders ‘shaping retail’s future’

The NRF Foundation is celebrating the honorees of its annual “The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2023” during its annual conference and expo in New York City.

“This year’s distinguished honorees of The List demonstrate the many pathways to success within retail, and serve as a reminder that our industry provides meaningful opportunities to people of all backgrounds,” said Tony Spring, chairman and CEO of Bloomingdale’s and chairman of the NRF Foundation board of directors. “We are proud to recognize these talented individuals for their dedication to our incredible industry.”

The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2023 honorees are:

• Aman Advani, co-founder and CEO of Ministry of Supply;
• Erin Izen, senior director of workforce programs, The Home Depot;
• Bahja Johnson, head of customer and community belonging and enablement, Gap Inc.;
• Suresh Kumar, executive VP, global chief technology officer and chief development officer, Walmart; and
• Steve Madden, creative and design chief, Steve Madden.

Each honoree has been featured in a video interview by the NRF Foundation that offers an inside look at their careers and influence on retail.

“We are especially proud to showcase the diversity that makes our industry unlike any other, and highlight the success of retail professionals pursuing a variety of passions,” NRF Foundation executive director Bill Thorne said. “They are an inspiration not only to their peers, but also the future leaders of retail, and we look forward to celebrating The List.”

The award highlights the wide range of companies, roles and products that are vital to retail and consumers.

The 2023 NRF Foundation Honors took place on Jan. 15 at the Marriott Marquis Times Square in New York City. The event was co-hosted by Spring and Walmart U.S. president and CEO and NRF board chairman John Furner.

Since 2015, the NRF Foundation Honors has raised funds to provide educational programs and resources that connect people to life-changing careers in retail. The Honors celebrates retail professionals who are building better lives and stronger communities.