The National Retail Federation announced that Qurate Retail Inc. president and CEO Mike George has been elected chairman of the NRF Board of Directors. George replaces BJ’s Wholesale Club Chairman and CEO Christopher Baldwin, who has served since January 2018.
“By any measure, Mike has distinguished himself throughout his career as an innovator and highly successful global retail leader,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. “As we begin the third decade of the 21st century, NRF is extremely fortunate to have Mike’s knowledge, background and expertise as this dynamic industry continually transforms, influencing the nation’s economy and impacting communities large and small.”
“The level of creativity across retail has never been higher as our members respond to rising consumer expectations with new products and experiences that make people’s lives better,” George said. “As an industry that supports one in four American jobs, retail is uniquely positioned to drive economic growth and NRF is a critical force in bringing the retail industry together. Retail continues to evolve at a rapid pace, making way for new technologies, products and platforms, and I am honored to lead the NRF Board during this dynamic time.”
In addition, three new members have been elected to the board: Vitamin Shoppe Inc. CEO Sharon M. Leitte, Ralph Lauren Corporation President and CEO Patrice Louvet and Vera Bradley President, CEO and Director Robert Wallstrom. Louvet will be a member of the board’s executive committee.
The new members will serve a two-year term until January 2022.
