IKEA U.S. CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer Javier Quiñones

IKEA U.S. CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer Javier Quiñones is one of the incredible industry leaders on The List of People Shaping Retail’s Future 2025. Javier reflected on his journey, beginning his career at IKEA as a part time store associate during the holidays, and eventually becoming one of the biggest leaders of the global corporation.  

We asked Quiñones 20 questions about his career, the retail industry, and advice he would give to those looking to grow their careers in retail. Here are a few of his responses.  (Watch video for full interview) 

How did you get to the role you are currently in? 

Well, I never expected to have the role that I have today. I started as part-time. My intention was to be an architect but I fell in love with IKEA and to be honest, it's been a very safe journey. It's been step by step This is my third country and it's been an amazing journey. 

Tell us about an experience you've had that defines retail for you. 

I cannot forget the Saturdays back in Barcelona when I was working on the sales floor, it was packed with customers, having the time and the conversation with them, understanding their needs and providing solutions in their home, that was absolutely amazing for me. Retail is, vibrant, it’s fast, it's about customers, it's about range. 

How do you turn off work and how do you encourage your team to find work life balance? 

We want the best version of every coworker in IKEA and this only happens when everyone is balanced. Taking care of yourself is extremely crucial to actually be the best when you are at work. This is something that is part of our DNA in IKEA, and as we often say, put on your oxygen mask first before helping others. As leaders, we need to be balanced so we can lead in the best possible way. 

What is something unexpected about your career in retail? 

Almost all of my career in retail has been unexpected. I joined IKEA during the Christmas campaign, during the weekends to pay for my driving license and a couple of other things. But I fell in love. I still remember when I was shopkeeper in one of the stores in Barcelona, I thought I made it. I found my job. Many roles have happened since then, and I consider all of this an extra bonus since that moment. 

What does the future of retail look like? 

I see a future where all products are more sustainable and even more important, where all products are circular. The future looks much greener than what it looks today, and retail is always at the forefront of innovation. It is going to be much more digital, and it's going to be much more innovative. 

About NRF Foundation Honors

The NRF Foundation connects people to an industry that's a great place to start and a great place to grow. Since 2015, the NRF Foundation Honors has raised the funds to continue to provide programs and resources to help people build better lives and stronger communities.

Join us in New York City to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the NRF Foundation Honors and be a part of the story of how retail builds extraordinary careers.