25 Leaders To Watch In 2025

CommerceNext is honoring 25 leaders to watch in 2025 with the CommerceXcellence Award. The award recognizes visionaries and leaders in the retail industry who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and impact!

*2025 winners to be announced in January

Meet the 2025 Honorees

Becca Mignanelli

VP, eCommerce

Coach

Becca Rotelli Mignanelli has been instrumental in driving Coach’s eCommerce growth, blending the brand’s iconic heritage with cutting-edge digital innovation. Under her leadership, eCommerce now represents a significant portion of Coach’s total revenue, achieving record-breaking online sales and expanding its digital footprint. Becca’s vision has positioned Coach as a leader in luxury digital retail.

Carey Collins Krug

CMO

Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

Carey has steered Abercrombie & Fitch through a remarkable growth phase, leveraging bold marketing strategies to engage new demographics resulting in a 14% year-over-year increase. Her innovative marketing initiatives have revitalized the brand’s image and engagement with younger consumers, reinforcing Abercrombie’s position as a leader in the retail space. Carey’s commitment to authenticity and inclusivity has played a pivotal role in the brand’s ongoing transformation and success

Samantha Kitain

Frmr CMO

Tarte Cosmetics

Samantha’s visionary leadership at Tarte Cosmetics drove impressive growth, positioning the brand among the top 10 in the US prestige makeup market in 2023. Under her guidance, Tarte experienced a significant triple-digit halo effect in retail, fueled by innovative strategies and a strong presence on platforms like TikTok. Her focus on authenticity and customer engagement solidified Tarte’s status as a leader in the beauty industry. We can’t wait to see what’s next for her in her professional journey!

Melissa Worth

SVP, Americas

New Balance

Melissa’s exceptional leadership at New Balance has been pivotal in driving significant growth across the Americas. By fostering extraordinary teams and embracing the power of mentorship, she has created a culture of collaboration and innovation that propels the brand forward. Her strategic initiatives have led to impressive year-over-year fiscal increases, reinforcing New Balance’s position as a leader in the athletic market.

Renee Lopes Halvorsen

CMO

Marine Layer

Renee has been instrumental in Marine Layer’s success, driving over 10x growth during her ten years with the brand through highly strategic marketing investments. Her creative leadership has built a vibrant brand community and elevated Marine Layer’s sustainable ethos, positioning it as a standout in the lifestyle apparel category.

Amber Turley

VP Omni Convenience & Commerce Partnerships

Sephora

Amber Turley drives customer convenience at Sephora through initiatives like Buy Online Pick-Up In-Store and Same-Day Unlimited. Since joining in 2015, her innovative omni-experiences and partnerships with Instacart and DoorDash have enhanced customer engagement and contributed to revenue growth, strengthening Sephora’s market share in the competitive beauty retail landscape.

Josh Leiberman

SVP, eCommerce

Aritzia

Josh Lieberman leads Aritzia’s eCommerce strategy, driving significant growth and innovation within the brand. Under his leadership, Aritzia reported a remarkable 16% increase in revenue, reaching $413 million for the most recent quarter. His focus on enhancing the online shopping experience and leveraging digital strategies has strengthened Aritzia’s position in the competitive fashion retail landscape.

Michelle Pacynski

VP, Digital Innovation

ULTA

Michelle Pacynski is the VP of Digital Innovation at Ulta Beauty, where she leads a dynamic team that transforms the beauty retail experience through innovative technology. She founded the Digital Innovation team, expanding it significantly and launching cutting-edge solutions that enhance customer engagement. As a Fund Advisor for Prisma Ventures, she shapes the future of retail innovation.

Fiona Tan

CTO

Wayfair

Fiona Tan drives technological innovation at Wayfair, enhancing the online shopping experience through data and cutting-edge technology. Her leadership focuses on personalizing shopping and optimizing logistics with advanced algorithms and machine learning. Passionate about fostering diversity in tech, Fiona empowers her team to explore innovative solutions, solidifying Wayfair’s position as a leader in ecommerce.

Mary Orrell

Senior Director, Customer Operations

Minted LLC

Mary Orrell is an incredible force at Minted, implementing AI-based technologies that enhance customer experiences and streamline employee workflows. Her focus on leveraging technology for the benefit of multiple stakeholders reflects her strategic vision and passion for innovation. Mary’s leadership and commitment to driving efficiency make her a standout in the industry, consistently delivering results that elevate Minted’s operational effectiveness.

Eleanore Quartel

CDO & Head of DTC

Fossil Group

Eleanore Quartel has revolutionized Fossil Group’s direct-to-consumer operations through innovative strategies and data-driven insights. As CDO and Head of DTC, she has spearheaded the use of advanced analytics and digital tools to deepen customer connections, optimize sales channels, and elevate the shopping experience. Eleanore’s leadership has been pivotal in driving growth and modernizing Fossil’s brand presence.

John Hazen

CDO & Interim CEO

Boot Barn

John Hazen, a former Chief Digital Officer, has uniquely transitioned into the role of Interim CEO at Boot Barn, leveraging his expertise to advance the company’s customer-facing technology capabilities. His focused approach to executing strategic initiatives has led to one of the most exceptional growth stories in the retail industry. By implementing industry-leading applications of artificial intelligence, John continues to enhance the customer experience and strengthen Boot Barn’s market position.

Meera Bhatia

President, TechstyleOS and COO

Fabletics

Meera Bhatia is the President of TechstyleOS and COO at Fabletics, driving the brand’s innovative, customer-centric approach. She leverages the TechstyleOS platform to enhance operational efficiency and deliver seamless shopping experiences. Under her leadership, Fabletics has embraced data-driven strategies and advanced technology, ensuring agility and early adoption that keep the brand at the forefront of retail innovation and growth.

Kristin Patrick

CMO, Head of Digital

Marc Jacobs

Kristin’s exceptional leadership has redefined many of the brands she’s worked for and, at Marc Jacobs, she is redefining the marketing strategy, blending creativity and vision to elevate the brand’s global influence. Her ability to inspire teams and execute transformative campaigns has strengthened the brand’s position in the luxury market.

Kelly Goldston

CDO

Spanx

Kelly’s leadership at Spanx has been pivotal in driving the brand’s digital evolution. Her strategic direction and ability to foster collaboration have resulted in sustained growth and a stronger connection with customers.Under her leadership, Spanx has expanded its product range to include more versatile, comfortable pieces that women can wear day-to-day, which has really broadened the brand’s appeal.

Denise Incandela

EVP, Fashion Division

Walmart US

Denise’s leadership has reshaped Walmart’s fashion division, combining innovation with customer-first strategies to “democratize” fashion across Walmart’s 4,000 stores. Her vision and commitment to creativity, empowerment, experimentation and collaboration has not only enhanced the brand’s style offerings but also empowered teams to drive impactful results.

Bree Casart

Chief Customer Officer

Shutterfly

Bree Casart, Chief Customer Officer at Shutterfly, is a visionary leader dedicated to enhancing customer experience and driving engagement. Her strategic leadership and focus on personalized service have transformed customer interactions, fostering brand loyalty and increasing retention. Bree inspires her team to innovate continuously, ensuring Shutterfly not only meets but exceeds customer expectations in a competitive landscape.

Jordan Cohen

SVP, Digital

Solo Brands

Jordan Cohen is the SVP of Digital at Solo Brands, known for his unwavering commitment to execution and integrity. He moves swiftly to implement innovative solutions while fearlessly exploring new technologies and emerging trends. Jordan pushes the boundaries of traditional practices, elevating his tech vendors and driving impactful results that enhance the customer experience. His leadership fosters a culture of excellence and continuous improvement, making him a vital asset in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Anddria Clack-Rogers Varnado

VP & GM, Head of Consumer Business

Kohler Company

Anddria’s visionary leadership has transformed Kohler’s consumer business, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration. Her strategic foresight has driven growth and elevated customer experiences through modernized strategies and cutting-edge initiatives. By empowering her teams to challenge conventions, Anddria continues to position Kohler as a leader in the consumer space.

Meghan Hurley

Vice President, Global Marketing

Claire’s

Meghan Hurley is spearheading Claire’s transformative rebranding to connect with younger generations, blending playful in-store experiences with cutting-edge technology like generative AI. Her strategic leadership drives revenue growth across all channels while fostering innovation and collaboration. Meghan’s forward-thinking approach embraces adaptability, community-building, and kindness, positioning Claire’s for an exciting, interactive future in retail.

Michelle Peterson

CMO

Kendra Scott

Michelle has championed Kendra Scott’s philanthropic mission by leading impactful initiatives that empower women, support underserved communities, and promote education. Under her leadership, the brand has expanded its programs, such as partnerships with nonprofit organizations and campaigns that give back a portion of sales. Michelle’s dedication to integrating purpose with profit has strengthened the brand’s impact and inspired meaningful change.

Roma A. McCaig

Chief Public Affairs and Impact Officer

REI

Roma A. McCaig has been pivotal in advancing REI’s commitment to sustainability, outdoor stewardship, and community inclusivity. As Chief Public Affairs and Impact Officer, she leads efforts to reduce the co-op’s environmental footprint and foster equitable access to the outdoors. Her leadership has driven impactful programs that align with REI’s mission of protecting the planet and inspiring outdoor experiences for all.

Megan Porteous

VP of Ecommerce

Carve Designs

Megan has been a driving force behind Carve Designs’ commitment to ethical practices and sustainability. Her focus on environmentally conscious strategies has elevated the brand while promoting a better future for the planet.

Craig Brommers

CMO

American Eagle Inc.

Craig has championed initiatives that prioritize inclusivity, mental health awareness, and sustainability at American Eagle. His campaigns have inspired the brand’s young audience to engage with causes that create a positive social impact.

Jack Reynolds

CMO

Free People

Jack has led Free People’s efforts to support social responsibility through sustainable practices and charitable initiatives. His work has reinforced the brand’s commitment to doing good and creating meaningful connections with its audience.

Awards Presented At January 13th Reception

January 13th at 7:30 pm at the Rubin Museum of Art, NYC

The 2025 CommerceXcellence Awards will be presented at our Reception at NRF Big Show.

Selection Committee

Andrew Tweed, GM, Fruit Gifting, 1-800-Flowers.com

Samir Desai, EVP, Chief Digital + Technology Officer, Abercrombie & Fitch Co

Chris Hardisty, CEO, Alexis Russell Jewelry

Javier Marimon, VP of Ecommerce, Felina

Craig Brommers, CMO, American Eagle

Keri McGhee, CMO, Attentive

Vijay Talwar, Chief Commercial and Digital Officer, Avolta

Jeff Gerstel, CMO, B&H Photo

Angela Hsu, Former CMO, Beyond (formerly Overstock)

Emily Culp, Chief Strategy & Brand Officer, BodyHealth

Billy May, CEO, Brooklinen

Sarah Rasmusen, Chief Customer & Digital Officer Advisor, Build-A-Bear Workshop

Joe Megibow, Former CEO, Casper

Emily Hickey, Co-Founder & CEO, Chief Detective Growth Consulting

Jon Mandell, Managing Director, The Consello Group

Jeremy Swift, CEO & Founder , Cordial

Roshan Varma, SVP Digital , Delta Galil

Matt Gehring, Former CMO, Dutch Pet

Ekta Chopra, Chief Digital Officer, e.l.f. Beauty

Shawna Hausman, Former SVP, Global Ecommerce, ESPRIT

Doug Jensen, SVP, GTM Analytics & Activation and Learning COE, Estee Lauder Companies, Inc

Geoff Sanders, CMO, Firstleaf

Kacey Sharrett, Former Head of DTC, GoPro

Danielle Schmelkin, CIO, J.Crew Group

Derek Yarbrough, Former CMO , J.Crew Group

Dana Schwartz, SVP, Global Direct to Consumer & Digital, KEEN

Anddria Varnado, VP & GM, Consumer Business, Kohler

Qun Wei, VP of Data Analytics, Lemonade

Liesel Walsh, SVP Consumer Demand, Many Moons

George Hanson, EVP, CDO, Mattress Firm

Andrew Fried, CMO, Mint Mobile

Sarah Wallis, COO, Minted

Suruchi Shukla, VP, Marketing, Minted

Julie Evans, VP and CMO, Omaha Steaks

Lev Peker, CEO, Parts iD

Steven Young, CMO, Poshmark

Katherine Monasebian, COO , Radwell International

David Cost, VP of Digital & Ecommerce, Rainbow

Jason Blom, VP Strategic Opportunities, RTB House

Tobias Ring, Managing Director, Commercials, SCALE Commerce Engine

Bree Casart, CMO, Shutterfly

Jenna Flateman Posner, Founder, Chief Digital Agency

Josh Krepon, President, US Direct to Consumer & Global Digital, Steve Madden

Liana Thompson, Vice President of E-Commerce, Shutterfly

Carolyn Pollock, CMO, Tailored Brands

Noam Paransky, Former Chief Omni and Innovation Officer , Tapestry

Leslie Emmons Burthey, SVP Marketing, TeePublic

Jason Nickel, SVP of Marketing, Ten Thousand

Vivian Chang, VP, Ecommerce , GNC

Jon Kosoff, CDO, Tillys

Mike Lackman, Former CEO, Trade Coffee

Charlie Cole, CEO, Tribute Technology

Jeff Hamm, VP, Digital Experience and Operations , Ulta Beauty

Brian Seewald, EVP, Digital , Victoria’s Secret

Naomi Jacobs, Sr. Director, Head of Social, Walmart

Sarah Henry, VP, Head of Content, Influencer, & Commerce, Walmart

Pano Anthos, Founder & Managing Partner, XRC Ventures

25 Leaders To Watch In 2025

CommerceNext is honoring 25 leaders to watch in 2025 with the CommerceXcellence Award. The award recognizes visionaries and leaders in the retail industry who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovation and impact!

Awards Presented At January 13th Reception

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