LaBruno Named Exec. Director of RILA Communities Foundation

Washington, DC
04/01/2025

The RILA Communities Foundation, the newly established philanthropic arm of the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA), today announced the appointment of Lisa LaBruno as its new Executive Director. LaBruno brings a wealth of experience in non-profit leadership, strategic development, retail operations excellence and community engagement to the role.

“Lisa was the obvious choice to lead this critical new organization,” said Brian Dodge, RILA President and CEO. "Her proven track record of building impactful programs and fostering strong partnerships will be invaluable as the foundation advances the mission of strengthening ties between leading retailers, their workforce and the communities they serve. This work will bridge the gap that often exists between national public policy and local problem solving that often requires strong partnerships and local relationships. Under Lisa’s guidance I am confident the new foundation will be a tremendously effective and durable resource to retailers and the communities they serve for years to come."

The RILA Communities Foundation, a 501(c)3, is tasked with addressing complex challenges impacting the communities served by leading retailers. The Foundation is focused on bringing together diverse stakeholders to enhance collaboration and efficiencies to ultimately restore vibrance and economic growth in communities across America.

Prior to joining the RILA Communities Foundation, LaBruno served as RILA’s Senior Executive Vice President of Retail Operations. In this role, LaBruno led RILA’s efforts in the association’s key retail disciplines including store operations, asset protection, supply chain, e-commerce, and corporate social responsibility. She has over 30 years of relevant experience in both the public and private sector, including as an assistant county prosecutor and in-house attorney at The Home Depot.

"I am honored to join the RILA Communities Foundation and contribute to its important work," said LaBruno. "Bringing people together to innovate and tackle complicated problems is extraordinary work. I look forward to collaborating with retailers, community partners, and stakeholders to create meaningful opportunities and address critical needs in the communities we serve."

The Foundation is now focused on two major projects: RILA’s Vibrant Communities Initiative, a first-of-its kind partnership between leading retailers and district attorneys’ offices to combat retail crime, and the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance, a national effort to protect consumers and drive innovation to fight against gift card fraud. In her new role, LaBruno will be responsible for advancing these projects and leading the Foundation's strategic direction and long-term success.

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RILA is the US trade association for leading retailers. We convene decision-makers, advocate for the industry, and promote operational excellence and innovation. Our aim is to elevate a dynamic industry by transforming the environment in which retailers operate.

RILA members include more than 200 retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers, which together account for more than $2.7 trillion in annual sales, millions of American jobs, and hundreds of thousands of stores, manufacturing facilities, and distribution centers domestically and abroad