Schedule & Agenda

Agenda

Sunday Feb 16, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
Tuesday Feb 18, 2025
Wednesday Feb 19, 2025

7:00 AM – 3:00 PM: LINK at the LINKS Golf Tournament/Outing
This event requires pre-registration through the full conference registration process. Hit the LINKS with your colleagues on Sunday, February 16, for a free round of max score of par style golf at The Celebration Golf Club. Experience is not required, but enjoying the beautiful outdoors is. Transportation from the Gaylord is provided, starting at 7:00 a.m. with a 9:00 a.m. shotgun start.

Sponsored by NRS
10:00 AM – 6:30 PM: Registration & Information Desk
Pick up your registration materials here, along with answers to all your questions.

Government Issues IDs Required.
1:30 PM – 3:30 PM: Transportation & Logistics Committee Meeting - Invite Only
Join us for the RILA TRIC meeting, where transportation/logistics leaders will discuss current market outlooks, innovative strategies, and industry insights to enhance supply chain resilience and sustainability. This meeting will provide a platform for collaborative problem-solving and the exchange of cutting-edge ideas in transportation.
3:30 PM – 5:00 PM: Supply Chain Leaders Council Meeting (Part 1) - Invite Only
Members of the SCLC convene with fellow pyramid heads of supply chain from leading retailers, brands, and grocers to discuss top issues, benchmark on leading practices, and explore insights from industry experts. This exclusive gathering provides a unique platform to collaborate and advance retail logistics and operations.
5:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Supply Chain Conference Advisory Board Meeting - Invite Only
This is a private meeting for RILA members on the Retail Supply Chain Conference Advisory Board. The advisory board is comprised of top retail supply chain executives, and is charged with the task of overseeing the structure and programming of the LINK Retail Supply Chain Conference.
5:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Welcome Reception
Join us to kick off the LINK2025 conference at the welcome reception, where you can reconnect with industry friends, network with your peers and enjoy drinks and light fare.

7:15 AM – 6:00 PM

Registration & Information Desk

Pick up your registration materials here, along with answers to all your questions.

Government Issues IDs Required.

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM

Breakfast

Please join us for breakfast and networking before the day begins.

8:00 AM – 8:15 AM

Welcome to RILA LINK 2025: The Retail Supply Chain Conference

General Session

Kick off LINK with a look at the most pressing demands facing retail supply chain leaders. The omnichannel retail business demands more from its supply chains with new and variable planning cycles, unique partnerships, and personalized store experiences. From end-to-end, supply chains are more customer facing and retailers must utilize the leading edge in data analytics, AI, and technology to deliver. Join us to begin the most important conversation in the retail supply chain year.

Speaker: Jess Dankert
Vice President, Supply Chain

RILA

8:15 AM – 8:45 AM

Optimizing the Supply Chain: Enhancing Efficiency, Flexibility, and Customer-Centricity Through Reverse Logistics

General Session

Explore how Peter Millar and DHL are transforming supply chain operations to drive efficiency, adaptability, and customer loyalty. This session will delve into innovative approaches to reverse logistics, network optimization, and leveraging data to tackle complexity and enhance performance. Gain actionable insights to streamline operations, reduce costs, and deliver superior customer experiences.

Speakers: Thomas Borders
Vice President and General Manager

Inmar; Kyle Garrett
Vice President, Supply Chain

Saks Global; Drew Taranto
Vice President, Product Management (eCommerce and Returns)

DHL Supply Chain; Chris Wiest
Sr Director Supply Chain Logistics

Peter Millar

8:45 AM – 9:15 AM

Seeking Purchasability: Beyond Out-of-Stocks

General Session

This conversation will focus on the choices a leading retailer is making to strategically link the store and supply chain, use AI/ML, and measure inventory differently to deliver for their customers and achieve purchasability.

Speakers: Jess Dankert
Vice President, Supply Chain

RILA; Gretchen McCarthy
Chief Supply Chain & Logistics Officer

Target Corporation

9:30 AM – 10:15 AM 6 Concurrent Events

Attracting and Retaining the Next Generation of Talent

Breakout Session

Delve into the dynamics of attracting, retaining, and promoting the next generation of the supply chain workforce. We will explore key topics, including the characteristics and values of this emerging workforce, and how to tailor engagement strategies for both front-line workers and back-office staff. Additionally, we will discuss the impact of hybrid and remote work environments on talent development and leadership, as well as strategies for cultivating a successful hybrid work model.

Speakers: Bill Best
Senior Vice President, Supply Chain

Mattress Firm, Inc; Brian Gibson
Executive Director, Center for Supply Chain Innovation

Auburn University; Margaret Wilson
Student

Auburn University; Rebecca Wlazlo
Vice President, Fulfillment

L.L.Bean, Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom 1-3

Exploring Artificial Intelligence: How to Build an AI Strategy Within Your Organization and Gain Quick Wins

Breakout Session

AI has become the new buzzword in our industry, leading many of us to think about how we can apply AI to our current tasks, projects, as well as long term strategy to leverage its full capabilities. Striking the right balance between customer needs and expectations while maintaining low overall operating costs are the ideal conditions for artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). In this session, learn how leading retailers have implemented AI in various functions of their business, and made a direct impact to their business goals. Attendees will take away key actions to bring to their organizations on how to develop a strategy around AI/ML, learn what went well and what did not during implementation, and how to build a short- and long-term roadmap.

Speakers: Geoff Chong
Senior Director, IT Corporate Systems

Southeastern Grocers; Andrea Morgan-Vandome
SVP, Chief Innovation Officer

Blue Yonder; Keith Rothstein
Group Vice President, Product Strategy and Analytics

Meijer, Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom A-C

Fulfillment Automation in Action: Disrupt the Ordinary. Shape the Future. Deliver Results.

Breakout Session

Explore the latest trends in fulfillment automation tailored for both greenfield and brownfield sites. Attendees will gain insight into the decision-making process, the systems implemented, and opportunities for digitalization, AI, and emerging technologies in automated fulfillment.

Speakers: Christian Lahnsteiner
CEO

TGW Logistics Group; Kellen Wadach
Chief Supply Chain Officer

URBN

Location: Coastal Ballroom 9-10

How Fanatics Executes Excellence with Same-Day Delivery

Breakout Session

Join Fanatics and Roadie Founder for an insightful discussion on building a reliable, seamless same-day delivery program—then putting it to a super-size test. Hear the inside journey of Fanatics, from the initial strategic decision to feature same-day delivery, to the operational strategies and partnerships that make it happen. Learn how to overcome the challenges of same-day delivery, maintain high-quality experiences during peak demand, measure success, and optimize operations for consistently great customer experiences. You’ll gain valuable insights into overcoming obstacles and achieving excellence in rapid fulfillment, including a play-by-play breakdown of how same-day delivery helps Fanatics capitalize on multiple, unpredictable spikes in demand throughout sports seasons.

Speakers: Marc Gorlin
Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Roadie; Jennifer McKeehan
Chief Operating Officer

Fanatics

Location: Coastal Ballroom 6-8

Retailer-Only Roundtable: Processes, Policies and Technology for Safeguarding the Supply Chain

Retailer-Only Roundtable

Retail supply chain operations continue to evolve along with shopper preferences, and asset protection leaders work closely to address changing circumstances and ensure that people are safe and products are safeguarded. Connect with fellow retailers to discuss your questions and share leading practices on topics in the supply chain space—including cargo security, DC safety, ecommerce fulfillment challenges, inventory control and much more. Roundtables will be conducted under the Chatham House Rule and moderated by a retailer to facilitate a meaningful conversation on an important topic. This session is only available to retail and consumer product manufacturer attendees and is sponsored by RILA’s Supply Chain Asset Protection Working Group. Attend to learn more and join retailer peers in this space! Limited to 30 eligible attendees.

Speakers: Terry Finnegan
Vice President, Transportation

Academy Sports + Outdoors; Ty Taylor
Senior Director, Global Logistics

Saks Global

Location: Osceola 1

The Realities and Next Generation of Network Strategies

Breakout Session

Join our panelists to hear firsthand experiences of the next generation of network strategies. Learn about how retailers are rethinking their approach to network decisions, the realities of data and tools, and the complexities of scenarios.

Speakers: John Ames
Vice President, Business Development

Optilogic; Michael Gregory
Managing Director

Accenture; Heather Lane
Vice President, Supply Chain Strategy & Systems

Ulta Beauty, Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom 4-5

10:15 AM – 10:45 AM

Business Break

Stop by the LINK2025 Business Break for a morning pick-me-up.

10:30 AM – 1:00 PM

Supply Chain Leaders Council Meeting (Part 2) - Invite Only

Members of the SCLC convene with fellow pyramid heads of supply chain from leading retailers, brands, and grocers to discuss top issues, benchmark on leading practices, and explore insights from industry experts. This exclusive gathering provides a unique platform to collaborate and advance retail logistics and operations.

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM 6 Concurrent Events

Managing Policy Challenges in Retail Supply Chain

Breakout Session

Explore the evolving regulatory landscape and its impact on retail supply chains. From tariffs and trade agreements to labor laws and transportation regulations, participants will gain insights into key policy trends that impact supply chain operations. Learn how to navigate these challenges while driving operational efficiency.

Speakers: Michael Castagnetto
President, North American Surface Transportation

C.H. Robinson; Sarah Gilmore
Director, Government Affairs

RILA; Jennifer Reardon
Assistant Vice President, International Transportation

Canadian Tire Corporation, Limited

Location: Coastal Ballroom 6-8

Mastering the Last Mile: Profitable Strategies for Exceeding Customer Expectations

Breakout Session

To maintain customer loyalty, companies must meet increasing consumer demands, such as expectations for faster delivery. Despite the challenge, understanding consumer behavior and optimizing last-mile delivery can enhance repeat business. Personalization, customer segmentation, and operational research are also key strategies to boost conversions and address service shortcomings. This session will feature retail experts sharing best practices and examples from companies excelling in inventory, cost, and service level optimization.

Speakers: Chris Considine
Partner

AlixPartners LLP; Rajnish Kapur
SVP, Chief Global Sourcing and Supply Chain Officer

Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.; Ronnie Robinson
Chief Supply Chain Officer

Designer Brands Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom A-C

Proven Collaboration Between Railroads, Carriers and Shippers can Take a Bite Out of Crime

Breakout Session

In response to continued cargo theft occurrences on rails, Hub Group, the Union Pacific Railroad, and a BCO have partnered together tackling cargo theft through transparency, real time visibility, and collaboration. The session will review how utilizing technology with alert capabilities, and investigations can help to retrieve stolen cargo more often.

Speakers: Carol Beaumont
Vice President, Carrier & 3PL Management

The TJX Companies, Inc.; Stephen Chance
Vice President, Supply Chain Loss Prevention

The TJX Companies, Inc.; Mike Dickmeyer
General Director Shipment Quality

Union Pacific Railroad; Chris Hoffmeister
Chief Commercial Officer

Hub Group

Location: Coastal Ballroom 9-10

Retailer-Only Roundtable: Inventory and Demand Planning

Retailer-Only Roundtable

Inventory matters —management, planning, accuracy, etc.— have long been a key supply chain topic but have gained even more importance in the last few years. Join fellow retailers to discuss pressing issues in inventory management, demand planning and other related subjects. Topics may include managing impacts of disruption, systems/technology/innovation, KPIs & goals in a disrupted environment, maximizing inventory & space productivity, SKU proliferation, and more. Roundtables will be conducted under the Chatham House Rule and moderated by a retailer to facilitate a meaningful conversation on an important topic. This session is only available to retail and consumer product manufacturer attendees. Limited to 30 eligible attendees.

Speakers: Barb Reasinger
Sr Director Inventory, Order Management, Vendor Relations and Reverse Logistics

JD Sports; Megan Santiago
Vice President Merchandise Planning

L.L.Bean, Inc.

Location: Osceola 1

Strategic Reshoring to Achieve Supply Chain Excellence

Breakout Session

Businesses considering a shift in their supplier or manufacturing networks quickly realize that any change must be carefully considered, and a solid plan developed for all contingencies. This session focuses on how businesses can successfully navigate the complexities of nearshoring by developing agile, flexible supply chains. Attendees will learn about the importance of a well-planned logistics strategy to reduce lead times, mitigate global disruption risks, and adapt to shifting consumer demands.

Speakers: Dustin Burke
Managing Director and Senior Partner, Global Supply Chain

The Boston Consulting Group; Sally Gilligan
Chief Supply Chain and Transformation Officer

Gap Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom 4-5

Unlocking Weather Climate Data for Retail Innovation

Breakout Session

This session will focus on leveraging advanced weather and climate data analytics to drive innovation in the retail industry and enhance supply chain management efforts. Experts will highlight key strategies for using climate data to mitigate risks, improve decision-making, and boost profitability, all while adapting to emerging climate trends that impact retail operations and planning.

Speakers: Allison Crimmins
Executive Director, Industry Proving Ground

NOAA: National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration; Taylor Evans
Director, Command Center Operations

Lowe's Companies, Inc.; Erin Hiatt
Vice President, CSR

RILA

Location: Coastal Ballroom 1-3

11:30 AM – 1:15 PM

Lunch in the Expo Experience

Join us for lunch and networking in the Expo Experience. The Expo Experience will remain open until the end of the reception tonight.

11:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Expo Experience Open

The Expo Experience opens now! Join us to network with and learn from the service providers helping retailers meet their supply chain challenges and improve their results! The Expo Experience runs from 11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. today.

11:45 AM – 12:00 PM

Express Exchange: Planning for Supply Chain Uncertainty

In today's volatile global marketplace, retail supply chains face unprecedented challenges from natural disasters, geopolitical tensions, labor disruptions, and rapidly shifting economic conditions. Join this fast-paced discussion with top supply chain leaders as they share their current thinking and approaches when planning for potential disruptions and how they are turning uncertainty into a strategic advantage.

Speakers: Maryjane Fanizzi
Vice President, Logistics

Mattress Firm, Inc; Kevin Kinnaman
Vice President, Supply Chain Strategy & Fulfillment

DICK'S Sporting Goods, Inc.; Steve Sigrist
Vice President, Global Customer Service

Newell Brands

12:00 PM – 12:04 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Dematic

Take a quick, interactive break with our Sponsor Trivia Challenge! This lively session is the perfect blend of fun and networking. Test your knowledge with engaging questions related to our spotlighted sponsor, their products, services, or contributions to the industry. Compete for bragging rights (and a surprise prize)!

12:04 PM – 12:09 PM

Ask a Supply Chain Leader: Circularity

The circular economy is reshaping how retailers design, source, and manage product lifecycles, transforming sustainability from a corporate responsibility to a strategic business imperative. Take part in this audience-driven session where YOU get to ask a senior retail supply chain leader your most burning questions about circularity!

Speaker: Tim Dunn
Head of Sustainability

Best Buy Co., Inc.

12:09 PM – 12:13 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Accenture

12:13 PM – 12:23 PM

Dual Perspectives: What’s the Right Fit for Inventory?

Inventory is the backbone of retail, but its role within an organization often sparks debate. Is it a supply chain asset, managed and optimized for operational efficiency and cost management, or a merchandising tool, strategically aligned to enhance customer experience and sales? In this fast-paced, 10-minute session, hear contrasting perspectives from two retail experts on where inventory truly belongs in a retail company.

Speakers: Andrew Kettlewell
Group Vice President, Supply Chain

Walgreen Co.; Megan Santiago
Vice President Merchandise Planning

L.L.Bean, Inc.

12:23 PM – 12:27 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with NRS

12:27 PM – 12:47 PM

Women in Retail Talks Podcast

The Women in Retail Leadership Circle is bringing their Women in Retail Talks Podcast to the Fast Track Stage! Get real advice and valuable insights from a female retail leader as she shares her executive leadership and professional development journey.

Speakers: Raina Avalon
Executive Vice President, Logistics

The TJX Companies, Inc.; Melissa Campanelli
Co-founder

Women in Retail Leadership Circle

12:47 PM – 12:51 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with DHL

12:51 PM – 1:01 PM

Quick Connections: Expand Your Network

In this dynamic speed networking session, connect with fellow supply chain professionals in a highly efficient and engaging format. Prepare for quick exchanges that might spark long-term relationships and exciting opportunities in a session that makes every minute count.

Speaker: Amy Barnes
Founder & Chief Heart Officer

ELEVEN-B Consulting

1:01 PM – 1:11 PM

Forging a Strategic Partnership to Shape Future Supply Chain Leaders

Join us for an exclusive strategic partnership announcement that will enhance supply chain education and talent development. Learn how this partnership will prepare students for essential roles in supply chain sourcing, planning, and logistics, with a goal of unlocking great career opportunities for students in supply chain.

Speaker: Brian Fugate
Associate Dean for Graduate School Programs and Research

University of Arkansas

1:11 PM – 1:15 PM

Every Session Counts: Daily Prize Drawing

Get ready for a chance to win an exciting prize every day of the conference! For every exhibit hall session you attend, you’ll receive one entry into our daily prize drawing. The more sessions you attend, the more chances you have to win! A prize will be drawn at the end of each day of exhibit hall programming, but remember, you must be present to claim your prize. Don’t miss out—your next exhibit hall session could be your ticket to a win!

1:15 PM – 2:25 PM

Hosted Meetings

2:15 PM – 2:45 PM

Business Break

Enjoy a business break to grab some snacks and refreshments.

2:45 PM – 3:15 PM

Focusing on the Athlete to Drive Growth

General Session

Shifting customer demographics and behaviors requires new strategies to fast-track growth. This conversation will focus on how DICK’S Sporting Goods approaches building a world-class omnichannel operating model with a customer facing supply chain driving a differentiated athlete experience.

Speakers: Denise Karkos
SVP, Chief eCommerce Officer

DICK'S Sporting Goods, Inc.; Ylan Mui
Managing Director

Penta Group; Sean Whitehouse
Senior Vice President, Supply Chain

DICK'S Sporting Goods, Inc.

3:15 PM – 3:45 PM

RILA x Women in Retail Presents: Executive Leadership Insights

General Session

This session will feature a fireside chat with a leading supply chain executive discussing her career journey, finding work-life balance, and embracing servant leadership. The audience will hear lessons learned from a unique path to supply chain leadership and insights they can apply to their own leadership aspirations.

Speakers: Melissa Campanelli
Co-founder

Women in Retail Leadership Circle; Margi Vagell
Executive Vice President, Supply Chain

Lowe's

4:00 PM – 5:10 PM

Hosted Meetings

4:45 PM – 5:30 PM

Supply Chain Leaders Council Meeting (Part 3) - Invite Only

4:45 PM – 6:00 PM

Expo Experience Reception

Join other conference attendees for this great networking opportunity.

7:15 AM – 6:00 PM

Registration & Information Desk

Pick up your registration materials here, along with answers to all your questions.

Government Issues IDs Required.

7:30 AM – 8:00 AM

Breakfast

Please join us for breakfast and networking before the day begins.

Sponsored by Designed Conveyor Systems

8:05 AM – 8:40 AM

Building High-Performing Supply Chain Teams

General Session

This session will discuss how a leading retailer is developing a world-class supply chain organization. This conversation will focus on their approach to building teams that thrive in both rural and urban markets, fostering a culture of operational excellence, and creating career paths that attract and retain top talent.

Speakers: Philip Daniele
President and Chief Executive Officer, Customer Satisfaction

AutoZone, Inc.; Brian Dodge
President & Chief Executive Officer

RILA; Eric Gould
Senior Vice President, Supply Chain

AutoZone, Inc.; Bill Hackney
Executive Vice President, Merchandising, Marketing and Supply Chain

AutoZone, Inc.

8:40 AM – 9:15 AM

Accelerating Supply Chain Transformation

General Session

Foot Locker has been on a journey to create a more agile and modern supply chain platform as part of their Lace Up Plan. This conversation will focus on the successes and challenges of driving a multi-year plan to accelerate the creation of a best-in-class omnichannel experience.

Speakers: Kristin Bauer
Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer

Foot Locker, Inc.; Ylan Mui
Managing Director

Penta Group; Elliott Rodgers
Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer

Foot Locker, Inc.

9:30 AM – 10:15 AM 4 Concurrent Events

Navigating Returns: Balancing Customer Expectations and Profits

Breakout Session

Explore the current trends in returns from customer expectations around a frictionless experience to balancing sustainability and profitability.

Speakers: Amena Ali
Chief Executive Officer

Optoro; Kristin Bauer
Senior Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer

Foot Locker, Inc.; Kevin Kuntz
Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain - Logistics & Operations

Gap Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom A-C

Revolutionizing Safety Culture with AI: A Michaels Success Story

Breakout Session

Get ready to explore how AI is transforming safety and operations at Michaels. This session dives into how Michaels, in partnership with Voxel, is harnessing AI to transform safety and operations within their distribution centers. By leveraging existing video systems data, Michael’s is proactively identifying safety risks before they escalate, enhancing safety training, and driving tangible real improvements within their distribution centers. AI has played a pivotal role in Michaels' impressive safety achievements, including a 79.1% reduction in first-aid incidents and 53% reduction in overreaching incidents in just one year. You'll walk away from this session with practical strategies to use AI efficiently, make sense of the data, and elevate your safety culture and performance. Don’t miss this chance to see how the future of safety is unfolding!

Speakers: Vernon O'Donnell
Chief Executive Officer

Voxel; Chris Ortega
Director, DC Loss Prevention & Safety

The Michaels Companies, Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom 1-3

Sustainability Retail & Brand Meet Up

Retailer-Only Roundtable

Any LINK Retail and Brand attendees interested in transportation sustainability are welcome to join a meet up hosted by RILA’s Sustainability Committee members and Strategic Partners. Those planning to attend are asked to come with a transportation-related case study OR challenge in mind that they’d be interested in discussing with peers. Note: Non-retail/brand participants must be strategic partners of either RILA’s Sustainability Committee and/or Transportation-Sustainability Working Group. Reach out to RILA VP of CSR, Erin Hiatt (erin.hiatt@rila.org), with any questions.

Location: Osceola 1

Who’s the Power Behind Your Power-Only: Best in Class Practices for Partner Qualifications, Bid Events, and Cargo Security

Breakout Session

Unpack the stigmas around operator quality and cargo/data security in a power-only environment, and discuss strategies being used by best-in-class shippers to safely and effectively tap into this capacity channel. Engage in a dialogue on how to understand hidden risks, effectively outline SOP’s and bid requirements, partner internally with loss prevention teams, as well as how to establish operational controls that enable a shipper to access capacity beyond asset-based one-way trucking.

Speakers: Shannon Breen
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder

Freightvana.io; Jacob Nance
Director, Logistics and Transportation

Ace Hardware Corp.; Joe Obermeier
Vice President, Global Transportation

Gap Inc.; Brad Whitson
Director, Transportation Strategy, Solutions and Analytics

Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Location: Coastal Ballroom 6-8

10:15 AM – 10:45 AM

Business Break

Stop by the LINK2025 Business Break for a morning pick-me-up.

10:45 AM – 11:30 AM 4 Concurrent Events

Retailer-only Roundtable: Carrier Relationships and Collaboration

Retailer-Only Roundtable

How are retailers evolving their relationships with trucking carriers — through the market volatility of the past few years and with an eye to the future? From “shipper of choice” and scorecarding, to making the most of carrier conferences, to RFPs and bid processes—join fellow retailers to benchmark and discuss leading practices for maximizing the potential of your carrier engagement. Roundtables will be conducted under the Chatham House Rule and moderated by a retailer to facilitate a meaningful conversation on an important topic. This session is only available to retail and consumer product manufacturer attendees. Limited to 30 eligible attendees.

Speakers: Ken Braunbach
Vice President, Transportation

The Kroger Co.; Reid Craigmile
Senior Director, Middle Mile & Systems

Best Buy Co., Inc.

Location: Osceola 1

Shipper Examples of Navigating Sustainability Technology and Data in a Non-Private Fleet Model

Breakout Session

Accurately measuring and effectively reducing transport emissions can’t be done in isolation—it requires deep collaboration between shippers and their logistics service providers, especially for shippers without private fleets. Hear from leading retailers and a carrier partner on their collaboration journey to manage and reduce emissions. This session will touch on topics from data management, mode conversion & optimization strategies, backhauls, alternative fuels, and more.

Speakers: Shawntell Kroese
Associate Vice President, Sustainability and Sales Operations

Werner Enterprises; Joshua Peterson
Director, Logistics

Target Corporation; Mark Purdy
Director, North American Transportation

General Mills, Inc.; Jennifer Silberman
SVP Chief Sustainability Officer

Dollar Tree, Inc.

Location: Coastal Ballroom 1-3

The AI Advantage: Optimizing Inventory and the End-End Customer Experience

Breakout Session

Phantom inventory and eCommerce supply chain inefficiencies pose significant challenges to retailers, often resulting in lost revenue, compromised customer trust, and increased operational costs. In this session, we will delve into the transformative potential of AI-powered solutions in addressing end-to-end issues to turn phantom inventory discrepancies into profit, ensuring stock availability to leveraging AI-powered eCommerce platforms to improve conversion rates, reduce cart abandonment, and minimize shipping costs. This collaborative presentation will provide actionable insights into enhancing your eCommerce supply chain efficiency.

Speakers: Ruchi Christensen
Vice President, Distribution & Fulfillment

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI); Gurhan Kok
Founder and Chief Executive Officer

invent.ai; Cecilia Snider
Senior Manager, Inventory Optimization

Five Below, Inc.; Akhilesh Srivastava
CEO

Fenix Commerce; Sydney Wiese
Senior Manager, Outbound Transportation

Bombas

Location: Coastal Ballroom A-C

The Import Final Mile: From Port to DC

Breakout Session

The final leg of the global journey - from vessel to customs, ports, rail, chassis, drayage, and distribution centers – requires ongoing attention and prioritization. To ensure smooth flows during this increasingly complex “import final mile,” retailers need a strong mix of industry knowledge, strategy, and technology. This session will identify the major hurdles in the port-to-DC leg of the global journey, share workarounds to these scenarios, and discuss innovative strategies that retailers are using to mitigate potential disruptions.

Speakers: Reade Kidd
CEO

EDRAY; Jim Luebbe
Senior Vice President, Transportation Operations

Ross Stores Inc.; Nick Pombonyo
Director, Global Logistics and Trade Compliance

Drive DeVilbiss Healthcare; Ed Watson
Vice President, North American Logistics

Floor & Decor

Location: Coastal Ballroom 6-8

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Distribution/Fulfillment Committee Meeting - Invite Only

Join us for the RILA Distribution/Fulfillment Committee meeting, where fellow heads of distribution & fulfillment from leading retailers, brands, and grocers will gather to address critical issues and share innovative solutions in distribution and fulfillment strategy and operations. This meeting offers a platform for collaborative discussions, leading practices, and strategic insights to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.

11:30 AM – 1:15 PM

Lunch in the Expo Experience

Join us for lunch and networking in the Expo Experience. The Expo Experience will remain open until the end of the reception tonight.

11:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Expo Experience Open

The Expo Experience opens for it's final day now! Join us to network with and learn from the service providers helping retailers meet their supply chain challenges and improve their results! The Expo Experience runs from 11:30 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. today.

11:45 AM – 12:05 PM

Omnichannel Evolution: Take a Seat, Shape the Conversation

Literally join this conversation with supply chain experts as they discuss the latest trends, innovations, and challenges shaping omnichannel fulfillment. Take a seat in the "empty chair" and share your insights on omnichannel!

Speakers: Aaron Cohen
Director, Supply Chain Strategy

Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI); Lara Werner
Director, Supply Chain Network Strategy

Meijer, Inc.

12:05 PM – 12:09 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Green Mountain

12:09 PM – 12:27 PM

On the Move: The Transportation Gameshow

Get into the driver’s seat of supply chain logistics in this exciting gameshow, where contestants navigate transportation questions and tackle unexpected roadblocks. With every correct answer, players keep their cargo moving, racing to outpace the competition and claim the ultimate logistics champion title!

12:27 PM – 12:37 PM

Elevate Your Leadership: 10-Minute Power Session

Unlock your leadership potential in this high-energy session. Amy Barnes, Founder and Chief Heart Officer, with ELEVEN-B Consulting will share some practical strategies to boost your leadership skills and deliver immediate impact.

Speaker: Amy Barnes
Founder & Chief Heart Officer

ELEVEN-B Consulting

12:37 PM – 12:41 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Yusen Logistics

12:41 PM – 12:46 PM

Ask a Supply Chain Leader: Smart Warehousing

From autonomous mobile robots to automated storage and retrieval systems, smart warehousing technologies are revolutionizing how retailers optimize space, labor, and throughput in their distribution networks. Take part in this audience-driven session where YOU get to ask a senior retail supply chain leader your most burning questions about smart warehousing!

Speaker: Wes Whalberg
Senior Director, Supply Chain Strategy

Petco Health and Wellness Company Inc.

12:46 PM – 12:50 PM

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with FedEx

12:50 PM – 1:10 PM

Book Signing with Adam Grant

Join us for an exclusive book signing with this afternoon’s keynote speaker, Adam Grant. The first forty attendees will receive a complimentary signed copy of Adam’s latest bestseller, Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things.

Speaker: Adam Grant
Organizational Psychologist at Wharton, Bestselling Author of Think Again, and Host of the WorkLife & Re:Thinking Podcasts

1:10 PM – 1:15 PM

Every Session Counts: Daily Prize Drawing

1:15 PM – 2:25 PM

Hosted Meetings

2:15 PM – 2:45 PM

Business Break

Enjoy a business break to grab some snacks and refreshments.

2:45 PM – 3:10 PM

Global Trade Outlook: Navigating Urgent Changes in Trade Policy

General Session

This session will focus on the immediate shifts in trade policy and regulations that are significantly impacting retail supply chains. It will also explore strategies for adapting to the new strategic landscape and provide guidance on how to help your organization navigate a rapidly changing global environment.

Speakers: Ambassador Lee Feinstein
President

McLarty Associates; Blake Harden
Vice President, Trade

RILA; Kate Kalutkiewicz
Senior Managing Director, Trade Practice & McLarty Inbound

McLarty Associates

3:10 PM – 3:45 PM

Unlocking Hidden Potential: A Conversation with Adam Grant

General Session

In a world fixated on natural talent, Adam Grant challenges us to rethink how we measure success and unlock hidden potential—both in ourselves and in those around us. Drawing on vivid stories and groundbreaking research, he explores how learning, character, and opportunity are the keys to exceeding expectations. Join this inspiring conversation as Grant shares actionable insights for leaders to cultivate growth, overcome limitations, and build systems that empower teams to achieve unexpected heights.

Speakers: Adam Grant
Organizational Psychologist at Wharton, Bestselling Author of Think Again, and Host of the WorkLife & Re:Thinking Podcasts; Jennifer McKeehan
Chief Operating Officer

Fanatics

4:00 PM – 5:10 PM

Hosted Meetings

4:45 PM – 6:00 PM

Expo Experience Reception

Join other conference attendees for this great networking opportunity.

7:30 AM – 10:30 AM

Registration & Information Desk

Pick up your registration materials here, along with answers to all your questions.

Government Issues IDs Required.

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM

Breakfast

Please join us for the last breakfast of the conference.

8:30 AM – 9:15 AM 2 Concurrent Events

Future Focused: Skills Development for Tomorrow’s Supply Chain Leaders

Breakout Session

Demand often outstrips supply for skilled and experienced supply chain practitioners. This session will focus on how companies can bridge the talent gap by developing their future leaders’ functional expertise and soft skills. These transferable skills will support organizational success and individual career progression.

Speakers: Matt Bankirer
Vice President, Supply Chain Strategy and Engineering

Lowe's Companies, Inc.; Jevon Sparks
Vice President, Supply Chain

Nordstrom, Inc.; Jana Stevenson-Waln
Vice President, Transformation Operations, North America Supply Chain

The Coca-Cola Company; Warren Wills
Associate Vice President

North Highland Consulting

Location: Coastal Ballroom 1-3

Omni-Channel Evolution – Balancing Fulfillment, Delivery, Data and Stores While Unlocking Synergy and Flexibility Throughout the Customer Journey

Breakout Session

As the retail landscape continues to evolve, the journey toward ongoing improvement of fulfillment, delivery, analytics, and store performance faces significant complexity. There are many factors for retailers to evaluate when developing a fulfillment strategy aligned to consumer preferences such as the cost to serve, quality, speed, and experience. Hear from a panel of retail supply chain executives who are successfully executing strategies including how they balance speed and cost while enhancing the customer experience, how they leverage data insights and real-time inventory to improve fulfillment efficiency, and the evolving role of the store.

Speakers: Michael Baker
Head of Final Mile

The Kroger Co.; Chris Bright
Vice President, Market Delivery Operations

Lowe's Companies, Inc.; Mark Irvin
Executive Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer

Best Buy Co., Inc.; Tony Ward
EY Retail Supply Chain Leader

Ernst & Young LLP

Location: Coastal Ballroom A-C

9:30 AM – 10:15 AM 2 Concurrent Events

A Roadmap to Success: An Automation Conversation with ACE Hardware and Kimberly-Clark

Breakout Session

Discover the essential elements to consider when creating a phased roadmap for transitioning your supply chain network from a manual to automated operation. Leading retail experts will share best practices, potential challenges, and success stories to ensure your transition is smooth and maximizes efficiency and productivity.

Speakers: Rick DiMaio
Executive Vice President, Chief Supply Chain Officer

Ace Hardware Corp.; Robert Gallatin
Sr. Account Manager

Dematic Corporation; Joel Shaw
Senior Director, North America Logistics and Distribution Operations

Kimberly-Clark Corporation

Location: Coastal Ballroom 1-3

Why Is This Out-of-Stock? Learnings from Enabling an End-to-End Inventory Flow

Breakout Session

Learn from a cross-functional panel of retail experts who are enabling an end-to-end inventory flow across merchandising, supply chain, and stores. Hear different perspectives, challenges, and triumphs in finding new ways of working together to create a more efficient and effective inventory flow of the future.

Speakers: Jamie Bragg
Executive Vice President & Chief Supply Chain Officer

Tailored Brands, Inc.; Amy Jendras
Vice President, America's Supply Chain

Under Armour, Inc; Christina Shiminsky
Director, Strategy Principal

Accenture

Location: Coastal Ballroom A-C

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Women in Supply Chain Workshop: Developing Your Personal Leadership Commitments & Why It Matters

Workshop

Join Amy Barnes, Founder and Chief Heart Officer, with ELEVEN-B Consulting for this interactive and hand-on post-conference workshop brought to you by RILA's Women in Supply Chain Network. Participants will explore the importance of personal leadership commitments, understand how these commitments can enhance team performance, and leave the workshop with their very own unique leadership documents. Come prepared to engage, connect, and participate! This complimentary workshop is limited to 50 participants. Pre-registration is required.

Speaker: Amy Barnes
Founder & Chief Heart Officer

ELEVEN-B Consulting

Location: Coastal Ballroom 6-8

All times listed in Eastern Time (EDT). Schedule Subject to Change.

2025 Speakers

LINK features retailer-led breakouts and round tables, inspiring Keynotes, general sessions, and startup pitches. View our speakers!

Learn More

Hosted Retailers & CPMs Program

New for 2025, we’ve introduced a groundbreaking new Hosted Retailers & CPMs Program to unlock incredible new opportunities for retailers/consumer product manufacturers and participating solution providers.

Learn More

Bring Your Team

With over 2,000 retail supply chain leaders in one place, LINK is the perfect event to bring together your team and connect with carriers, vendors and other key partners.

Learn More

Schedule & Agenda

Agenda

LINK at the LINKS Golf Tournament/Outing

Registration & Information Desk

Transportation & Logistics Committee Meeting - Invite Only

Supply Chain Leaders Council Meeting (Part 1) - Invite Only

Supply Chain Conference Advisory Board Meeting - Invite Only

Welcome Reception

Registration & Information Desk

Breakfast

Welcome to RILA LINK 2025: The Retail Supply Chain Conference

Optimizing the Supply Chain: Enhancing Efficiency, Flexibility, and Customer-Centricity Through Reverse Logistics

Seeking Purchasability: Beyond Out-of-Stocks

Attracting and Retaining the Next Generation of Talent

Exploring Artificial Intelligence: How to Build an AI Strategy Within Your Organization and Gain Quick Wins

Fulfillment Automation in Action: Disrupt the Ordinary. Shape the Future. Deliver Results.

How Fanatics Executes Excellence with Same-Day Delivery

Retailer-Only Roundtable: Processes, Policies and Technology for Safeguarding the Supply Chain

The Realities and Next Generation of Network Strategies

Business Break

Supply Chain Leaders Council Meeting (Part 2) - Invite Only

Managing Policy Challenges in Retail Supply Chain

Mastering the Last Mile: Profitable Strategies for Exceeding Customer Expectations

Proven Collaboration Between Railroads, Carriers and Shippers can Take a Bite Out of Crime

Retailer-Only Roundtable: Inventory and Demand Planning

Strategic Reshoring to Achieve Supply Chain Excellence

Unlocking Weather Climate Data for Retail Innovation

Lunch in the Expo Experience

Expo Experience Open

Express Exchange: Planning for Supply Chain Uncertainty

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Dematic

Ask a Supply Chain Leader: Circularity

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Accenture

Dual Perspectives: What’s the Right Fit for Inventory?

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with NRS

Women in Retail Talks Podcast

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with DHL

Quick Connections: Expand Your Network

Forging a Strategic Partnership to Shape Future Supply Chain Leaders

Every Session Counts: Daily Prize Drawing

Hosted Meetings

Business Break

Focusing on the Athlete to Drive Growth

RILA x Women in Retail Presents: Executive Leadership Insights

Hosted Meetings

Supply Chain Leaders Council Meeting (Part 3) - Invite Only

Expo Experience Reception

Registration & Information Desk

Breakfast

Building High-Performing Supply Chain Teams

Accelerating Supply Chain Transformation

Navigating Returns: Balancing Customer Expectations and Profits

Revolutionizing Safety Culture with AI: A Michaels Success Story

Sustainability Retail & Brand Meet Up

Who’s the Power Behind Your Power-Only: Best in Class Practices for Partner Qualifications, Bid Events, and Cargo Security

Business Break

Retailer-only Roundtable: Carrier Relationships and Collaboration

Shipper Examples of Navigating Sustainability Technology and Data in a Non-Private Fleet Model

The AI Advantage: Optimizing Inventory and the End-End Customer Experience

The Import Final Mile: From Port to DC

Distribution/Fulfillment Committee Meeting - Invite Only

Lunch in the Expo Experience

Expo Experience Open

Omnichannel Evolution: Take a Seat, Shape the Conversation

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Green Mountain

On the Move: The Transportation Gameshow

Elevate Your Leadership: 10-Minute Power Session

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with Yusen Logistics

Ask a Supply Chain Leader: Smart Warehousing

Sponsor Spotlight Trivia with FedEx

Book Signing with Adam Grant

Every Session Counts: Daily Prize Drawing

Hosted Meetings

Business Break

Global Trade Outlook: Navigating Urgent Changes in Trade Policy

Unlocking Hidden Potential: A Conversation with Adam Grant

Hosted Meetings

Expo Experience Reception

Registration & Information Desk

Breakfast