The Most Interesting Room in Retail™
A strategic retreat for the industry’s top leaders.
The Retail CEO Forum is RILA’s most exclusive event—an invitation-only experience for chief executives shaping the future of retail. Held January 24-27, 2026 in Ojai, CA, the Forum is designed for clarity, connection, and candid conversation. Over three days, retail’s top CEOs step away from daily demands to reflect, recharge, and engage on the issues that matter most.
A setting as exceptional as the conversations.
Nestled in the Ojai Valley Inn, the Retail CEO Forum pairs high-level dialogue with world-class amenities—from spa treatments to curated dining.
Stunning views, spacious accommodations, and warm California hospitality make it more than a venue—it’s where ideas spark and leaders recharge.
Attend the can’t miss event for retail executives!
Our Past Speakers Have Included
George W. Bush
- 43rd President of the United States & Founder of the George W. Bush Presidential Center
Tim Ingrassia
- Co-Chairman, Global Mergers & Acquisitions, IBD
- Goldman Sachs
Anthony Hucker
- President & Chief Executive Officer
- Southeastern Grocers
Hal Lawton
- President & Chief Executive Officer
- Tractor Supply
Erik Nordstrom
- Chief Executive Officer
- Nordstrom
Pamela Stewart
- Chief Customer Officer – Retail North America Operating Unit
- The Coca-Cola Company
Russell Weiner
- Chief Executive Officer
- Domino's
Ken Hicks
- Chief Executive Officer
- PetSmart
Dona D. Young
- Chair, Board of Directors
- Foot Locker
Scott Baxter
- President, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
- Kontoor Brands
Chris Blakeslee
- President & Chief Executive Officer
- Athleta
Mark Breitbard
- CEO
- Gap Inc.
Melissa Etheridge
- Grammy Award Winning Singer & Songwriter
Tasia Filippatos
- President
- Disney Consumer Products
Helena Foulkes
- Board Director, Costco
- Retired Chief Executive Officer and Board Member, Hudson’s Bay Company
Meg Ham
- President
- Food Lion
Katie Ledecky
- 9-Time Olympic Gold Medal Winning Swimmer
Joe Preston
- President
- New Balance Athletics Inc.
Steve Smith
- President and Chief Executive Officer
- L.L.Bean
Julie Sweet
- Chair and Chief Executive Officer
- Accenture
Ted Decker
- Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
- The Home Depot
Elliott Rodgers
- Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer
- Foot Locker, Inc.
Corie Barry
- Chief Executive Officer, Best Buy
- Chairwoman, RILA
Bill Rhodes
- Executive Chairman
- AutoZone
Inside the Retail CEO Forum
The Retail CEO Forum offers a private space for top retail leaders to exchange ideas, address shared challenges, and recharge among peers. Join a network of forward-thinking executives shaping the future of retail in an exclusive, invitation-only environment.
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Speakers & Thought Leaders
Hear from leading CEOs, economists, and experts as they explore topics shaping retail’s future. Speakers offer insights on global trends, innovation, and strategy through keynotes and fireside chats designed to spark meaningful conversation among peers.
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Program & Leadership Sessions
The program features Executive Leadership Sessions led by top retail minds. Experience peer-driven discussions, strategic case studies, and curated breakouts designed to uncover actionable insights and help shape what’s next in retail.
Learn MoreMeet Top Executives From Leading Retailers
These are just a few of the leading brands represented at the Retail CEO Forum.
Who You'll Meet
The Retail CEO Forum welcomes top retail executives from leading brands. This invitation-only event brings together decision-makers to exchange insights, build trusted connections, and shape the future of retail through peer-driven dialogue.
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Spouse & Guest Activities
Located on 220 acres in Ojai, the Five Diamond Ojai Valley Inn offers luxury, history, and tranquility. With spacious rooms and award-winning amenities, it’s the ideal place to recharge and connect throughout your Retail CEO Forum experience.
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Discover Ojai Valley Inn
Set on 220 acres in Ojai, the Five Diamond Ojai Valley Inn offers luxury, history, and serenity. With spacious rooms and award-winning amenities, it’s the ideal setting to unwind and connect during your Retail CEO Forum experience.
Learn MoreThe RILA Retail CEO Forum is a great opportunity for senior retail leaders to connect with peers, share insights and learn from leading experts on a wide range of topics including the economy, world affairs and politics. The relaxed environment provides a perfect backdrop to have genuine and meaningful conversations on the opportunities and risks that are impacting our stakeholders – from employees to customers to our industry – and ultimately shaping the world around us.
Corie Barry
- CEO
- Best Buy Co., Inc.
Thank you to our Title Sponsor
Accenture
Accenture is a global professional services company helping businesses, governments, and organizations build their digital core, optimize operations, and accelerate growth. With 738,000 people across 120+ countries, we combine deep industry expertise, advanced technology, and strong ecosystem partnerships to deliver measurable outcomes. Our services span Strategy & Consulting, Technology, Operations, Industry X, and Accenture Song—driving 360° value for clients and communities worldwide.