Women in Retail

The Women in Retail programme, in partnership with Be Inspired, brings together top female retail executives to celebrate and champion the achievements of women in the industry, whilst facilitating mentoring and discussion.

For the last five years, the programme has mainly consisted of the International Women in Retail networking reception, combining a wonderful venue such as the Burj al Arab in Dubai or the Teatro Real in Madrid with inspirational speakers such as Jo Malone. The evening is also highlighted by the presentation of the Woman of the Year Award. The 2019 winner was Judith McKenna, President & CEO of Walmart International.

It is our goal for Congresses in the future to achieve gender parity on stage and off. We want more women within the industry to have a seat at the table, have their voices heard and be seen to lead. We also want them to have the support they need through networks, mentors and learning – opportunities we will be providing at the Congress moving forward.

World Retail Congress is delighted to have partnered with our sister brand Be Inspired for the 2020 Congress.

Be Inspired exists to promote gender balance at all levels across retail and encourage women to fulfil their career aspirations. It connects them with those who can help propel their careers, inspires them through the stories of others, opens eyes to career opportunities, and fosters a culture of career confidence.

Be Inspired unlocks potential and ambition through emotive, practical learning and development-focused content across retail-week.com, our podcast, our workshops and our conference.

On all of these channels, we bring together programme ambassadors with aspiring retail professionals at all stages of their career. 

For more information please visit the Be Inspired site.