As an expert with over 30 years of experience in global operating and senior advisory roles, I'm passionate about retail innovation and growth and the modern thinking and leadership required to bring it about. I conduct senior-level assignments for clients across all retail and digital formats including specialty, fashion, consumer durables, luxury, and lifestyle brands. I've completed numerous CEO, president, and senior merchandising, marketing, and operating searches and advised clients on broader strategic, structural, succession, leadership, and talent issues, including recruiting diverse talent in a highly competitive market and facilitating inclusive environments.Prior to my many years in search, I was a Senior Partner at Bain & Company. Over my career, I've served as a senior advisor to the private equity owners, Boards and CEOs of companies including Apple, Benetton, Best Buy, Gap Inc., Disney, Dollar General, Harbor Freight Tools, H-E-B, Home Depot, IKEA, Kate Spade, Lego, McDonald’s, Mothercare, Neiman Marcus, Macy’s, Michaels, Nike, PetSmart, Samsung, Sleep Number, Starbucks, The Children’s Place, Tractor Supply, UPS, VF Corp. (Nautica, The North Face, Timberland), Williams Sonoma, Warner Bros., and Wal-Mart/Sam’s Club. I have also led assignments in over 15 countries -- including China and Russia -- across 5 continents. My PE clients have included Ares Management, Blackstone, The Carlyle Group, KKR, and Pritzker Capital.My earlier career experience includes senior operating roles at Macy’s (where I was in their storied Executive Training Program), SunVision (a nationwide chain of sunglass stores), and Beiersdorf S.p.A. (best-known for its NIVEA brand of skincare.)I currently serve on the Board of GiftingBrands.com, a Dallas-based charity start-up. Over the years, I've been a frequent speaker and panelist at industry conferences and have been cited in publications including The Wall Street Journal, Business Week, Women’s Wear Daily, and The Robin Report. I've also been a guest on television and radio, including CNBC's Power Lunch, Fox Business, & NPR.I live in Dallas with my wife, Susan Bednar Long, a celebrated interior designer, my two teenage children and a goldendoodle.