RILA Adds Experts in Trade and Technology

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) today announced the addition of Kathleen Huzarsky McNamara as vice president of technology and Kurt Lynch as vice president of trade, bringing extensive experience in federal policy, legislative affairs, and government relations to RILA's advocacy team. 

As the 120th Congress approaches, RILA will continue to focus on affordability, advocating for more predictable trade policies and ensuring that efforts to address consumer costs do not undermine the programs that help families save money. Kathleen and Kurt will play critical roles in our effort to help policymakers understand the needs of the shoppers we see everyday.  

Kurt joins RILA after nearly a decade on Capitol Hill, most recently serving as senior policy advisor and appropriations manager for U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.). In that role, he advised on a broad portfolio of policy issues, including trade, tax, budget, small business, and employment. Prior to joining Cortez Masto's office, Kurt worked for U.S. Senator Harry Reid (D-Nev.) and U.S. Representative Scott Peters (D-Calif.). He earned his bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Nevada, Reno. 

"Kurt brings a deep understanding of the legislative process, strong relationships on Capitol Hill, and valuable experience navigating complex trade and economic policy issues," said Evan Armstrong, RILA's senior vice president of government affairs. "As retailers navigate an evolving global trade landscape, his expertise will be an asset to our members and our efforts to advance policies that support a strong, competitive retail industry." 

Kathleen brings more than 20 years of experience advancing federal legislative and policy priorities, most recently serving as associate vice president of legislative affairs at Comcast Corporation, where she spent more than 15 years. She previously held positions with NCTA – The Internet & Television Association and CTIA – The Wireless Association. Throughout her career, Kathleen has led federal advocacy efforts and advised on political strategy across telecommunications, technology, and media policy. Throughout her career, Kathleen has led federal advocacy efforts, advised senior leadership on congressional and political strategy, and advanced significant federal policy priorities across telecommunications, technology, and media. Her experience encompasses a broad range of issues, including broadband policy, privacy, spectrum, artificial intelligence, broadband infrastructure and federal funding, video and streaming, content protection, and competition.  

“Kathleen brings an exceptional depth of experience and a proven track record of working with Capitol Hill and trade associations to advance technology policy priorities in Washington,” Armstrong said. “Her leadership and expertise on privacy issues will be a tremendous asset to the retail community and will strengthen RILA’s ability to engage policymakers on the issues shaping the future of retail." 

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Media Contact: press@rila.org

RILA is the U.S. trade association for leading retailers. We convene decision-makers, advocate for the industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate.

RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $2.7 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and hundreds of thousands of stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad.