In this episode of Retail Therapy, we hear from Manisha Amin (she/her), CEO of the Centre for Inclusive Design. Manisha's dedication to innovation and social change has made her a pivotal figure in the realm of inclusivity. With expertise in strategic marketing, communication, and cultural transformation, Manisha illuminates the path toward creating products, services, and policies that truly embrace inclusivity. A thought leader renowned for her ability to think from the edge, Manisha brings a wealth of insights to this episode.  Throughout this episode, we delve into: Definition and context of inclusive designManisha's journey to championing inclusive designExamples where retail excels, and the areas that need improvementRetail initiatives for neurodivergent customersAdvice for retail leaders on DE&IStrategies for small businesses on inclusivity Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

In this episode of Retail Therapy, we are honoured to welcome Mariam Veiszadeh, CEO of Media Diversity Australia. A trailblazing figure in human rights advocacy, law, authorship, and media commentary, Mariam has left an indelible mark in the fight against racism and xenophobia. Renowned for founding the Islamophobia Register Australia, Mariam's endeavours have earned her recognition, including the esteemed Fairfax Daily Life 2016 Woman of the Year accolade, for her profound impact on fostering positive change in workplaces and society. In this episode, we cover: Mariam's journey from law to becoming a leading anti-racism campaignerPersonal experiences with racism and Islamophobia as catalysts for advocacyFounding the Islamophobia Register Australia and earning accolades for fostering positive changeLeveraging skills and platforms to combat systemic discriminationIntersectionality of identity and its impact on advocacyInspiring listeners to confront injustice and drive positive change Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Our next guest, Anyier Yuol, is not only an entrepreneur but also a catalyst for social change. With a strong commitment to making a difference, Anyier is the visionary behind Miss Sahara, an initiative for Lead Beyond Education (LBE) charity, as well as the founder and CEO of Anyier Model Management. Her advocacy spans a multitude of causes, including women's and girls' rights, refugee and gender equality, sport for development, and amplifying the representation of minority groups within Australia's sports, beauty, and fashion sectors. Through her unwavering dedication, Anyier has carved out a platform where young voices can resonate for impactful change. Notably, her remarkable efforts garnered recognition, culminating in the prestigious 2023 Australia for UNHCR – SBS Les Murray Award for Refugee Recognition, celebrating her diverse achievements across sports, women's empowerment, and refugee advocacy. In this episode, we delve into: Anyier's journey as a South Sudanese refugeeInsightful perspectives on diversity and inclusion stemming from her refugee experienceIdentifying critical needs for refugees in their new homelandAdvocacy initiatives focusing on diversity and refugee rightsUnpacking the pivotal role of the retail sector in fostering inclusivity as the largest private employerNavigating genuine communication of diversity commitmentsAddressing diversity barriers within the fashion industry and strategies for fostering inclusivity Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Our next guest for Retail Therapy is Natalie Phillips-Mason (She/Her), Founder and Lead Consultant of Inclusive Change. Natalie is dedicated to fostering inclusive workplaces and enriching customer experiences by celebrating our unique identities. Natalie encourages leaders to embrace all aspects of diversity – apparent and non-apparent – for the benefit of their employees and their customers. Through her collaborative approach, Natalie empowers individuals of all neurotypes to engage in meaningful conversations; driving education, authentic dialogue, and actionable change. This episode explores: Natalie's allyship journeyWhy language is importantEmployees and customer experiences – and why retailers should take noticeConsiderations and opportunities in the Australian retail landscapeThe latest researchEducating retail staff on neurodiversity Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Our next guest for Retail Therapy needs little introduction: Natasha Stott Despoja, a prominent figure in Australia's advocacy for gender equality. With International Women's Day just around the corner, we're thrilled to host Natasha, whose legacy as a former Senator for South Australia speaks volumes. Throughout her career, she has passionately championed gender equality and tirelessly advocated for the prevention of violence against women and girls.   As the founding Chair of Our Watch, a renowned national organisation dedicated to preventing violence against women and their children, Natasha has played a pivotal role in shaping Australia's approach to these critical issues. Her dedication to embedding gender equality in the fabric of Australian society has been unwavering, making her an inspiration to countless individuals striving for a more equitable world.   This episode explores:  Natasha's journey and advocacy for gender equality Importance of gender diversity in retail leadership Government support for gender equality in business Successful gender equality initiatives in retail Promoting inclusive marketing in retail Global collaboration for gender equality Engaging customers and employees in gender-related issues Implementing family-friendly policies in retail Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Celebrate Mardi Gras with a dose of Retail Therapy, spotlighting diversity, equality, and inclusion. Joining us for this special occasion is Katherine Wolfgramme (she/her), a nationally recognised Trans Advocate, award-winning gender diversity consultant, and Trans awareness trainer. As a pioneer in promoting equity and equality for the LGBTQIA+ community, Katherine's impact resonates through numerous media campaigns, accolades, and charitable endeavours. Proudly representing the Transgender community, Katherine leverages her journey to cultivate culturally safe environments for others. Prepare to be inspired as Katherine recounts her journey and advocacy efforts, marked by groundbreaking achievements such as being the first transgender woman in Fiji legally granted a female name by the government. This episode is a testament to her relentless pursuit of societal change and her commitment to improving future experiences. This episode explores: Highlights of Katherine's journey and advocacy workLegal precedents and societal progress in LGBTQIA+ rightsAdvice for employers supporting LGBTQIA+ employeesChallenges faced by transgender individuals in retailStrategies for businesses to foster inclusivityAdvice for individuals struggling with their gender identityCultural and religious sensitivities in advocacy Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Joining us for some Retail Therapy focusing on diversity, equality and inclusion is Leila Naja Hibri (she/her), former CEO of the Australian Fashion Council. In the face of the pandemic, Leila emerged as a guiding force, steering the Australian fashion industry towards resilience. Her compelling personal narrative serves as a testament to the advantages that arise from fostering culturally diverse women in leadership roles. Leila's impact extends to the establishment of a standardised Australian fashion trademark, solidifying her status as a trailblazing role model within the retail sector. Join us as we uncover the inspirational journey and visionary contributions of Leila Naja Hibri. This episode explores: Leila's journey from accounting to leading the Australian Fashion CouncilChallenges related to cultural diversity in her career and how she overcame themImportance of diversity in the retail sector, addressing barriers and shaping leadershipSteps for retail organisations to foster diversity in leadership teamsLeila's impact on sustainability in the fashion industryEncouraging women's involvement in leadership rolesAdvice for culturally diverse individuals aspiring to leadership in retail and fashion Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Welcome to Season Six of Retail Therapy, where we delve into Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion. We're thrilled to kick off this season with a powerhouse guest, Lisa Annese (she/her), CEO of Diversity Council Australia. Lisa was named one of the AFR’s 100 Women of Influence in 2018. In 2019 she was elected to the Board of Amnesty International Australia and in 2021 to the Board of the non-partisan organisation, Women for Election. Under Lisa’s leadership, the Diversity Council has produced a broad array of groundbreaking, evidence-based research around diversity, equality and inclusion. With her wealth of expertise, Lisa is the perfect guest to inaugurate Season Six, offering invaluable insights into this crucial conversation. This episode explores: Lisa's journey into her career path and what motivated herTackling gendered harassment, discrimination, and violence - the remaining challengesResolving the persistent gender pay gap and necessary changesAdvocating for a public register of gender pay discrepancies for corporate accountabilityFirst Nations inclusivity and thoughts on the Voice discourseProgress in addressing racial hurdles or ongoing concernsSupporting the LGBTIQ+ community's inclusion in businessesEncouraging employers to consider hiring individuals with disabilities or neurodivergenceBalancing religious and cultural diversity within the context of DE&IThe role of the retail industry in driving and exemplifying societal change Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Season 6 of the ARA’s Retail Therapy podcast is gearing up for an early 2024 launch! Join host, ARA CEO Paul Zahra, as we dive into the crucial conversation on diversity, equality, and inclusion led by the Australian Retailers Association. This season, Retail Therapy is going deep into the realm of DE&I in the retail landscape. It's not merely a buzzword; it’s a driving force fuelling innovation and change in the industry. Expect engaging discussions with pioneers and leaders in every facet of DE&I. Their diverse stories and insights promise an eye-opening journey into this vital topic. Stay tuned for a stellar lineup of guests, each bringing their unique perspectives and experiences to the table. Don't miss out on these insightful conversations! Follow us on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to be part of these great discussions. Get a sneak peek in our trailer - now live.  ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Welcome to the fifth and final special Christmas bonus episode of Retail Therapy for the year.  As the holiday season rapidly approaches, retailers are gearing up for the annual Christmas shopping frenzy. However, this year brings a heightened sense of uncertainty to the industry, as Australians grapple with the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis, while retailers themselves contend with the burdens of the cost-of-doing-business crisis.  Joining us for some Retail Therapy is Stephen Younane, Co-founder and CEO at Retail Prodigy Group, the direct-to-consumer partner for Nike, Samsung and Mattel.   This episode explores: A read on the mood of retailers heading into Christmas this yearInsights into Retail Prodigy Group’s partnership with MattelHow the Barbie brand has innovated and evolved while remaining nostalgic The role of e-commerce in Retail Prodigy Group's Christmas sales strategyThe importance of Black Friday for Australian retailers and its growth each yearSupply chain concerns and learnings ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community. Keen to learn more? With the end-of-year shopping season fast approaching, the recently launched ARA Christmas & Holiday Resource Hub offers a specially curated collection of reports, consumer spending insights, podcasts, and media releases, all designed to enhance your strategic holiday planning. Access here: https://www.retail.org.au/christmas-holiday-resource-hub

Welcome to another special Christmas episode of Retail Therapy  Christmas is right around the corner, marking the peak season for the retail industry. This upcoming festive trading period holds immense significance for retailers, especially those in the discretionary sector, as they typically generate up to two-thirds of their annual profits during this period.  Joining us for some Retail Therapy is Prof Gary Mortimer. Gary Mortimer is a Professor of Marketing and Consumer Behaviour at the QUT Business School. Prior to joining QUT, Professor Mortimer spent over 25 years working with some of Australia’s largest general merchandise and food retailers.   This episode covers:  Understanding value and how consumers will be shopping this yearHow to stand out amongst your competitorsHow retailers can tap into the mindset of budget-conscious shoppers and create a compelling shopping experienceConsumer psychological insights that retailers should keep in mind this ChristmasWhen Gary expects most consumers will do their Christmas shoppingWhich products will be in hot demand this holiday season  ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community. Keen to learn more? With the end-of-year shopping season fast approaching, the recently launched ARA Christmas & Holiday Resource Hub offers a specially curated collection of reports, consumer spending insights, podcasts, and media releases, all designed to enhance your strategic holiday planning. Access here: https://www.retail.org.au/christmas-holiday-resource-hub

The holidays are upon us and retailers are in deep preparation for the Christmas shopping rush. It’s going to be an unpredictable festive trading season this year with a raft of economic challenges and uncertainty amid the cost of living. In this Retail Therapy Christmas special, we’ll be discussing what’s in store for retailers, consumers and how spending may be shaping up. Joining us for some Retail Therapy is Kate Box, Director Global Business Group ANZ at Meta. Kate has a wealth of marketing and advertising experience and we're thrilled to have her on the podcast to share her insights. This episode covers: Consumer trends and technologies that can help retailers succeed in this all-important timeChanging consumer habits and spending insightsWinning over the cost-conscious consumerThe role of technology during the Christmas rushTips for businesses to be set up for success for the holiday seasonChampioning e-commerce and brick-and-mortar shopping working togetherWhat we can learn from best-of-breed Christmas marketing campaigns ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community. Keen to learn more? With the end-of-year shopping season fast approaching, the recently launched ARA Christmas & Holiday Resource Hub offers a specially curated collection of reports, consumer spending insights, podcasts, and media releases, all designed to enhance your strategic holiday planning. Access here: https://www.retail.org.au/christmas-holiday-resource-hub

The holidays are fast approaching, and retailers are in preparation mode for the Christmas shopping rush. There’s a bit more uncertainty for the industry this year as Australians continue to feel the crunch of the cost-of-living crisis whilst retailers feel the crunch of the cost-of-doing business crisis. In this episode of Retail Therapy, we’ll be discussing what’s in store for retailers and consumers, as well as how spending may shape up. Joining us for some Retail Therapy is Craig Woolford, Senior Retail Analyst in the Consumer Sector at MST Marquee and one of the most knowledgeable voices in Australian retail. Craig shares with us the latest consumer trends and his insights into what retailers can expect during this all-important time. This episode covers: Craig's take on the retail industry's performance throughout the year and expectations for this upcoming shopping seasonConnecting with and winning over the cost-conscious consumerThe key consumer behaviour changes or shifts from recent yearsWhich metrics retailers should monitor closely during the holiday season to gauge successExpectations about which categories will fare better or worse this ChristmasThe role that loyalty programs and customer retention strategies play for retailers during the holiday seasonBlack Friday and Cyber Monday expectations ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community. Keen to learn more? With the end-of-year shopping season fast approaching, the recently launched ARA Christmas & Holiday Resource Hub offers a specially curated collection of reports, consumer spending insights, podcasts, and media releases, all designed to enhance your strategic holiday planning. Access here: https://www.retail.org.au/christmas-holiday-resource-hub

'Tis the season to be shopping, and the retail world will soon be buzzing with festive delight. In this episode, we're diving deep into the heart of the retail sector's busiest time of year and what we can expect for the shopping season ahead.   As the festive season draws near, join host ARA CEO Paul Zahra in a spirited conversation with Fleur Brown, ARA Chief Industry Affairs Officer.    Together, they unwrap the season's retail forecast, exploring the expected $66.8 billion pre-Christmas spending and how it compares to the previous year.   Discover the impact of rising interest rates on holiday budgets and dive into the minds of value-driven consumers seeking quality and ethics in their purchases. Don't miss their insights on the significance of Black Friday and Cyber Monday in completing holiday shopping lists.   The debate between online shopping and the in-store experience also takes centre stage, offering a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving retail landscape. For retailers gearing up for the holiday season, this episode offers essential advice on crafting successful Christmas campaigns and nurturing lasting customer relationships.   Join us for an illuminating conversation that will have you well-prepared for the upcoming holiday shopping season. ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community. Keen to learn more? With the end-of-year shopping season fast approaching, the recently launched ARA Christmas & Holiday Resource Hub offers a specially curated collection of reports, consumer spending insights, podcasts, and media releases, all designed to enhance your strategic holiday planning. Access here: https://www.retail.org.au/christmas-holiday-resource-hub

Joining us for some Retail Therapy is Eric Morris, former CEO of Brand Collective, which boasts a portfolio of iconic owned and licensed brands with more than 3,000 employees. Eric has over 35 years of industry experience covering retail, wholesale, licensing, marketing and product development in both international and national organisations. He has held senior management positions with a who's-who list of household name companies including Myer, Disney and Reebok. Eric knows a thing or two about leadership and we're thrilled to have him on as a guest. In this episode, we delve into: Gain first-hand knowledge from Eric's extensive industry experienceExplore the leadership philosophy that has guided Eric throughout his careerUnderstand the intricacies of managing change and transition in the retail sectorStay updated on the disruptive challenges reshaping the retail landscapeLearn from Eric's personal journey and career advice for aspiring professionalsGet inspired by Eric's approach to growth and decision-making in the industry Tune in to gain exclusive insights, discover innovative perspectives, and get inspired by Eric's transformative approach to the retail arena. Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Get ready for an exciting episode of Retail Therapy where we dive deep into the world of fashion, leadership, innovation, and sustainability with our special guest, Elisha Hopkinson, CEO of APG & Co. Elisha has been an instrumental part of APG & Co for more than a decade and has worked in the fashion industry both in Australia and internationally for over two decades. For over 50 years, APG & Co has curated a collection of Australia’s most beloved fashion brands including Sportscraft, SABA and JAG. Key highlights from the episode: How to stand out in the fiercely competitive fashion sectorEmbracing change and transformation for successThe future of APG & Co’s brand portfolioElisha’s inspiring journey in the fashion industryOvercoming self-doubt on the path to becoming a CEOElisha’s invaluable advice for aspiring leaders Don’t miss out on this engaging episode! Tune in now and be inspired by Elisha Hopkinson and APG & Co’s incredible journey. Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

In this episode of the ARA's Retail Therapy Podcast, we have the privilege of sitting down with Angus McKay, CEO and Managing Director of 7-Eleven. Angus has an impressive career background, including leadership roles at iconic companies like Fosters and New Zealand Milk, and he has been at the helm of 7-Eleven for over seven years. This episode explores:  7-Eleven's rise to popularity: Angus sheds light on how 7-Eleven became the most recognised convenience store brand in Australia. Leadership and management: With over 700 stores under his purview, Angus discusses his leadership style and the challenges of overseeing such a large entity.Advice for aspiring leaders: Angus provides valuable advice for individuals aspiring to leadership roles, offering tips on how to prepare for significant responsibilities.Innovation: Angus talks about the role of innovation within 7-Eleven and shares some future aspirations for the business.Sustainability initiatives: The discussion delves into 7-Eleven's sustainability efforts, including their transition from plastic to plant-based materials for drinking cups. Passion for retail and convenience: Angus reflects on his favourite aspects of the retail and convenience industry. We extend our gratitude to Angus McKay for sharing his insights and retail experiences with us.  Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body. We represent a $420 billion sector that employs more than 1.4 million Australians and is the largest private sector employer in the country. As Australia’s peak retail body, representing more than 120,000 retail shop fronts and online stores, the ARA informs, advocates, educates, protects and unifies our independent, national and international retail community.

Welcome to another episode of Retail Therapy, where we delve into the heartbeat of the retail industry. In this episode, we are thrilled to have a distinguished guest with us – Mark Ronan, the visionary CEO of Adairs. With over 15 years of diverse leadership experience within Adairs, Mark's journey is a testament to his profound understanding of the retail landscape. This episode with Mark and ARA CEO Paul Zahra covers:  Mark's leadership journey at AdairsThe Adairs growth phenomenonMark's evolution as a leader over the years and affinity for the retail industry Guiding leadership principles, including the importance of adaptive leadershipPutting innovation into focus We extend our gratitude to Mark Ronan for sharing his insights and experiences with us. Thank you for tuning in to this captivating episode of Retail Therapy.  Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body, representing a $400bn sector that employs 1.3 million Australians. Learn more: retail.org.au

Joining us for some Retail Therapy is Catriona Noble, Executive General Manager, Retail at Australia Post. Catriona is responsible for the organisation’s network of 4,320 Post Offices and is renowned for driving key transformation in many of her previous roles, including CEO of McDonald’s Australia and Managing Director at ANZ. Australia Post has been a cornerstone of the country’s social fabric for generations. From the humble beginnings of delivering mail, it has evolved into a multifaceted organisation. In this insightful discussion, we delve into the pivotal role that Australia Post stores play in different communities, serving as essential hubs for connection and convenience nationwide. In this episode, we discuss: What an Australia Post store means to different communitiesAspirations for change at Australia PostCatriona's leadership journeyThe top career advice for budding leadersThe importance of giving backSustainability initiatives at Australia Post Tune in now for this enlightening episode, and discover the incredible stories and insights behind Australia Post's journey to making a meaningful difference in the lives of millions! Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html   ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body, representing a $400bn sector that employs 1.3 million Australians. Learn more: retail.org.au

Next up on the Retail Therapy podcast is Ian Bailey, Managing Director of Kmart Group. With a wealth of experience in the retail industry, Ian Bailey assumed the role of Managing Director at Kmart Australia in February 2016. Later, in November 2018, he took on the responsibility of leading Wesfarmers’ Kmart Group division, which encompasses the Kmart & Target Australia businesses, Kmart Australia Sourcing, and ANKO. Prior to this, Ian was Kmart’s Chief Operating Officer where he was instrumental in Kmart’s establishment and clarity of purpose, developing a strategic blueprint and an operational architecture for the transformation of Kmart’s business model from a traditional discount store chain to an innovative, modern, hybrid retail model. Kmart Group is a true powerhouse within the Australian retail industry, with its two iconic brands, Kmart and Target, which are beloved by millions of shoppers. The Kmart Group operates 452 stores across Australia and New Zealand, plus an impressive online offering, and employs nearly 50,000 team members. This episode of Retail Therapy delves into: Ian’s journey at Kmart over the last 15 yearsHow to prepare for leadership at a high levelThe top values to instil within your teamHow Ian balances his work responsibility with his own lifestyleInnovation at Kmart – what’s nextThe best piece of career advice Ian has received Tune in to gain valuable insights from Ian Bailey on the retail industry, leadership, and the future of this dynamic sector. Thank you to our Principal Partner American Express for supporting this season of Retail Therapy. Learn more about American Express: https://www.americanexpress.com/au/merchant/accept-amex-cards.html   ABOUT THE ARA: The Australian Retailers Association (ARA) is the oldest, largest and most diverse national retail body, representing a $400bn sector that employs 1.3 million Australians. Learn more: retail.org.au