In Conversation
Time: 10:40 AM
Location: Loyola Conference Hall
Industry leader Diane Brisebois, former President & CEO, , explores how responsible leadership will shape the future of retail amid rapid technological and social change. She’ll discuss the evolving role of brick-and-mortar stores, the skills and values the next generation of retail leaders will need in an AI-driven world, and how authenticity, transparency and purpose will define the brands of tomorrow.
Diane Brisebois is one of Canada鈥檚 most respected retail leaders. As President and CEO of the Retail Council of Canada (RCC) from 1995 to 2025, she transformed the organization into the country鈥檚 leading voice for retail, representing companies responsible for more than 75% of Canada鈥檚 retail sales.
Under her leadership, RCC became a trusted partner to government and industry, shaping national policy on trade, labour, sustainability, and innovation. Diane also guided the retail sector through the COVID-19 crisis and championed initiatives advancing sustainability, workforce development, and digital transformation.
She continues to share her expertise through service on several boards and advisory councils, including Canada鈥檚 Children鈥檚 Hospital Foundations, the Federal Disability Inclusion Council, and the David Sobey Retailing Centre at Saint Mary鈥檚 University Advisory Council.
A recipient of numerous honours鈥攊ncluding the Canadian Retail Hall of Fame, the Pinnacle Award for association excellence and the Star Women in Grocery Icon Award鈥擠iane remains a visionary leader dedicated to shaping the future of retail through mentorship, innovation, and advocacy for inclusion.
A visionary, strategist, and advocate for progress, Diane continues to shape the future of Canadian retail through her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to innovation and inclusion.
Dr. Ramesh Venkat is the Director of the David Sobey Retailing Centre and an Associate Professor of Marketing. He was formerly Associate Dean of Masters Programs and Director of the Sobey MBA Program. He has published over 50 articles and reports on topics such as online marketing, customer engagement, customer satisfaction, customer experience and brand strategy. Ramesh is the author book on online marketing. He has co-authored chapters in several marketing books. He is working on a forthcoming book on brand strategy in a digital marketplace. Through his company CeQuotia, Ramesh offers customer experience measurement and retail analytics solutions.