Overheard at CSA’s Top Women in Retail Tech Awards
Chain Store Age honored 17 outstanding female leaders in technology at its Top Women in Retail Tech awards event, which was held virtually earlier this month.
Now in its seventh year, the Top Women in Retail Tech program celebrates woman who are helping to transform the retail industry through the use of technology. In addition to a live virtual awards presentation, this year’s program featured a panel discussion with select honorees, and plenty of networking. (Podium was presenting sponsor for the event; Melissa and Reflexis were platinum sponsors.)
Here is a sampling of quotes from some of the honorees upon accepting their awards:
Julie Elmore, chief technology officer, Dollar General:
“As I look at the female executives who have been [honored] before us for the last seven years, it’s crowded with amazing talent. Knowing I get to share this honor with those women is a remarkable privilege.
Being in the tech arena, there is evolution around every corner. There is always a new idea or solution, or a new way to build and deliver that technology. I’m thrilled to be part of the retail and technology communities.”
Laura Loughran, senior VP, technology, Chico’s FAS:
“Thank you Chain Store Age for honoring us as the ‘Top Women in Technology,’ and making this happen in a virtual world — and it’s perfect timing to coincide with Women’s History Month. I’m honored to be among an incredible group of women who have already made history, who are currently making history, and I know will continue to make history. I have one of the best teams out there in retail — they make me a stronger leader, a better technologist and they continue to amaze me every day.”
Jan Walker, director of IT, Cavender’s:
“This award is an honor. It doesn’t just recognize me, but also my team. We are a strong, mighty team, and everything we do is a collaborative effort across our IT, operations, merchandising, e-commerce and finance teams, as well. Thanks to our team for believing in me, and to our company that supports our organization as we move into the future and develop new technologies.”
Cynthia Kleinbaum, VP of marketing, Walmart Plus and mobile and online pickup and delivery, Walmart:
“Thank you to all of the women and leaders in all organizations who shattered the glass ceiling, allowing me and my peers to never feel like we do not have seat at the table. I encourage everyone that we do the same for the next generation of women.”
Sruti Patnaik, senior VP, IT, stores, supply chain and corporate systems, and IT quality assurance services, Ross Stores:
“My mother used to say, ‘Do something every day. We all get the same 24 hours, what will you do with yours?’ She also told me ‘The sky is the limit,’ but I always responded, ’What limit, the sky is too close — there is no limit!’”
Aparna Khurjekar, chief customer officer, Verizon Consumer Group:
“As a woman, I am very encouraged by forums like this that look to celebrate successes of women and pave a path for others to do wonderful things.”
Ashley Sheetz, chief marketing officer and chief digital officer, At Home:
“I am humbled to be included in a very impressive and groundbreaking group of female leaders in technology. Thanks to the many At Home team members throughout the company for encouraging and supporting opportunities for growth, embracing diversity and equality, and genuinely believing it makes our company better.”
Jessica Ringena, senior VP, chief digital officer, Hy-Vee:
“Thank you to Chain Store Age for this award. It is especially an honor this year with everything [our] technology and digital teams endured with the onset of COVID.
Grocery is such an important industry as we provide basic daily needs. We rely on technology to not only enhance the shopping experience, but this year also to create an even safer, exciting space.”
Amy Smith, chief strategy & impact officer, TOMS:
“I could not be more honored to represent the many women I’ve worked with, admired and learned from across my career.
It’s going to take all of us to address the challenges facing our country and the globe. Companies across all industries must be clear about what they, their employees and customers value and expect of them, and how together we can build a stronger brighter future for all people.
I’m thankful for the women who have always been there for me, and for paving the way for opportunities that may not have been available 20 or even 10 years ago. We need to continue to lift each other up and share each change we make with someone else.
Here are the words I live by: Know your stuff, know your worth — and be confident in both.”