"This impressive group of leaders highlights the impact that can be made across the numerous career paths available in the retail industry."
WASHINGTON – The NRF Foundation today announced the honorees of The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2026, an exceptional group of retail leaders who will be celebrated at the annual NRF Foundation Honors in New York City on Jan. 11.
The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2026 honorees are:
e.l.f. Beauty Chief Marketing Officer Kory Marchisotto
Brooklinen CEO Billy May
American Eagle Outfitters Inc. Chief Global Asset Protection Officer and Chief Security Officer Scott McBride
Walmart Inc. Executive Vice President and Chief Sustainability Officer Kathleen McLaughlin
Pacsun CEO Brieane Olson
“The NRF Foundation is proud to recognize the 2026 honorees of The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future,” said Steve Preston, president and CEO of Goodwill Industries and chairman of the NRF Foundation Board of Directors. “Their vision and their commitment to transforming the retail industry have set new standards for ways retailers can better serve their customers and communities.”
Alumni of The List include leaders across beloved brands, creative startups and more. The award highlights the wide range of companies, roles and products that are vital to retail and consumers.
Alumni of The List include leaders across beloved brands, creative startups and more. The award highlights the wide range of companies, roles and products that are vital to retail and consumers.
“This impressive group of leaders highlights the impact that can be made across the numerous career paths available in the retail industry,” NRF Foundation Executive Director Adam Lukoskie said. “There are many paths to success in retail, and these honorees have demonstrated a commitment to making a lasting impact for future generations.”
The NRF Foundation provides more than $1 million in scholarships every year, connecting 80,000 learners and 3,700 educational and workforce partners with the retail industry. More than 300 retailers and industry partners support the work of the NRF Foundation to ensure that retailers have the quality talent they need for their stores, supply chain facilities and corporate offices.
More information is available at nrffoundation.org/honors.
About NRF
The National Retail Federation passionately advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $5.3 trillion to annual GDP and supporting more than one in four U.S. jobs — 55 million working Americans. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. nrf.com
About NRF Foundation
The NRF Foundation provides the skills and resources needed for a life-changing career. As NRF's nonprofit 501(c)(3), we connect people to an industry that’s a great place to start and a great place to grow. Together, we help people build better lives and stronger communities. nrffoundation.org
