The NRF Foundation Student Program in New York City gives college students the unique opportunity to launch their future careers in retail and experience all that the industry offers. Retail executives in marketing, merchandising, talent, entrepreneurship, sustainability, supply chain, technology and more share their stories, insights, and what they learned in their careers, and students explore various careers paths in the retail industry, meet with dozens of recruiters from their favorite brands and create visions for their futures, all in just four days.
The NRF Foundation Student Program is open to all undergraduate and graduate students and all educators and staff at any U.S. college or university.
Made possible
by retailers like you
Thursday Jan. 9 | All Day
Go behind-the-scenes, meet retail professionals and explore career paths with select retailers hosting sessions in their NYC offices, stores and more. Tours & Talks will go live in November, and students registered for the Student Program can sign up at no additional cost. Note: students only
9:00AM - 9:30AM and 9:30AM - 10:00AM
Tours & Talks
Foot Locker Reimagined 34th Street Store
Location: 112 W 34th St., New York, NY 10120
In the heart of New York City, where the pulse of fashion and culture beats strongest, Foot Locker has once again set the stage for sneaker culture with the grand reopening of its Reimagined flagship store on 34th Street. This isn't just a store; it's a multi-brand experience, a testament to Foot Locker's commitment to not just selling sneakers but celebrating them. This Foot Locker Reimagined store includes and introduces "Home Court”, a concept that dives deep into basketball culture, making it a haven for hoop fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike. This space isn't just about selling shoes; it's about immersing oneself in the world of basketball, where every corner of the store tells a story of the game's influence on fashion and lifestyle. There is also “The Clinic” to test your jumping skills. The collaboration with Nike and the Jordan Brand marks a significant step in blending premium customer service with cutting-edge products. At this Foot Locker Reimagined store you will find the latest on-court and off-court, multi-brand footwear and fashion for Men, Women and Kids. Foot Locker's owned brands are also represented. Foot Locker has also integrated; 3-D scanning technology for sizing, a communal try-on area, a Sneaker Hub and elevated brand storytelling with an enhanced Striper customer service vibe. Max capacity: 15 per tour
Sponsored by PAVE Global, hosted by Foot Locker
11:00AM - 3:00PM
Tours & Talks
Burlington Stores Tour & Talk
Location: 1400 Building, 11th Floor - 1400 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
Join us at the Burlington Stores New York City Buying Office! Learn about our careers and internship programs and get a glimpse into the off-price retail world! We are offering 2 interactive experiences, please sign up through the link and indicate the one that best suits your career interest. Buying Market Shadow: Join alongside our Burlington Buyers in market at live vendor appointments within the garment district. Be a part of selecting merchandise and negotiating the best deals for our customers! Planning & Allocations Experience: Hear from Durand Guion, SVP of the Fashion Office about fashion and trends in Off-Price, followed by an interactive activity with our Planning & Allocations teams. Sign up deadline: Dec 16, 2024 | Max capacity: 25
Sponsored by Burlington
11:30AM - 3:00PM
Tours & Talks
Kohl's Chats
Location: New York Design Office - 1400 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
The Kohl's Chats event is an opportunity for students to learn about specific departments within Kohl's they may be interested in pursuing: Buying and Inventory, Production, Sourcing, and Design. Students will also hear about the journey a product takes to get from concept to customer and have a chance to walk through the office! At Kohl's Chats, you will be able to sign up for one or multiple sessions of your choice. Kohl's will send individual sign-up links at a later date. For now, please submit your interest in the form! Session Schedule 11:30 to 12:00 - Kohl's Concept to Customer Process 12:15 to 12:45 - Buying & Inventory at Kohl's Overview 1:00 to 1:30 - Kohl's 101 1:45 to 2:15 - Design at Kohl's Overview 2:30 to 3:00 - Production & Sourcing at Kohl's Overview 3:15 to 3:45 - Kohl's Concept to Customer Process 10 minute office tours between each Sign up deadline: Jan 6, 2025 | Max capacity: 60
Hosted by Kohl's
12:00PM - 2:00PM
Tours & Talks
Mock Negotiation with the Ross Buyers
Location: 1372 Broadway, New York, NY 10018
Visit the Ross Stores New York Buying Office in the heart of the Fashion District. Learn how our Buyers secure product at our great prices by listening in on a Mock Negotiation with the Buyers. And take a tour of our sample floors to see what will soon be in stores! Great opportunity for those looking to explore our Buying and Planning Summer Internship or Full Time roles, therefore must graduate between May 2025 - May 2026. Freshman and Sophomores, please come see us at the Fair!
Hosted by ROSS
1:00PM - 2:00PM and 3:00PM - 4:00PM
Tours & Talks
Petco Union Square Flagship Tour & Talk Sponsored by PAVE Global
Location: 44 Union Square E, New York, NY 10003
The Petco Union Square Flagship isn’t your average pet store—it’s a two-story experience with a blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty, bringing in the elements of New York City and the iconic Union Square Park, which is across the street. As we explore this flagship, it feels like walking through a street scape and park within the Tammany Hall landmark building with its rooftop glass turtle. This flagship isn’t just about buying pet supplies; it’s a sanctuary dedicated to the health and wellness of pets and their devoted pet parents. As you enter the flagship there is a central park like area, with original creations/merchandise for the pet and pet parents that is ever changing. This flagship includes the following areas; pet grooming, pet wash, Just Food for Dogs, Reddy (Petco’s owned brand), pet training, veterinary services, cat adoption, companion animals, cat and dog food assortment areas, as well as designated toy and home areas. It's a is a place to celebrate the bond between pets, their parents, and the Petco brand.
Hosted By Petco.
1:00PM - 3:00PM
Tours & Talks
Nordstrom Tour & Talks
Location: Nordstrom NYC Flagship - 225 W 57th St, New York, NY 10019
Join us for an exclusive opportunity! NRF Students are invited to step behind the scenes at our Nordstrom NYC Flagship store for a unique experience that promises inspiration and insight. During this immersive event, you’ll engage directly with some of our fearless leaders and their dedicated teams. Discover the inner workings of our store, learn about the innovative strategies that drive our success, and gain valuable perspectives on the retail industry. This is more than just a tour—it’s a chance to explore potential career paths at Nordstrom. Whether you’re interested in fashion, customer service, or retail management, our leaders will share their journeys and offer guidance on how to thrive in this dynamic field. Don’t miss this chance to connect, learn, and envision your future with Nordstrom! We can’t wait to see you there!
Hosted by Nordstrom
1:30PM - 3:30PM
Tours & Talks
Retail Revelations: A Journey with Macy's Inc.
Location: Macy's Inc. Corporate Headquarters - 151 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001
Macy’s Inc. Tour & Talk is an exciting opportunity for students to explore the dynamic world of retail merchandising and supply chain. This engaging event kicks off with a panel featuring passionate associates from across Macy's Inc., who will share their career journeys, insights, and the innovative strategies that drive success for both brands. Following the panel, students will embark on an exclusive tour of the iconic Herald Square store, experiencing firsthand how these strategies come to life in a bustling retail environment. This immersive experience not only enhances their understanding of career opportunities within Macy's Inc. but also inspires them to envision their own paths in the retail industry. Don’t miss this chance to connect with industry professionals and gain invaluable knowledge from one of the most renowned names in retail! Sign up deadline: Dec 9, 2024 | Max capacity: 40
Hosted by Macy's Inc.
3:00PM - 5:00PM
Tours & Talks
Target Tour & Talk
Location: Marriott Marquis O'Neill Ballroom (1535 Broadway) + Times Square Target Store (237 W. 42nd St. New York, NY)
Target invites you to participate in an engaging panel featuring Target leaders who will share their backgrounds, career paths, and valuable lessons learned throughout their journeys. After the panel, we’ll wrap up the tour at our Target Herald Square store, where you’ll gain insights into store operations, career opportunities, and how we strive to fulfill our mission of “helping all families discover the joy of everyday life” every day! Sign up deadline: Dec 6, 2024 | Max capacity: 20
Hosted By Target
SPECIAL NRF BIG SHOW TOUR
Sunday, 10:00am or 4:00pm
Tours & Talks
Zebra Technologies NRF Big Show Booth Tour
Location: Jacob K. Javitz Convention Center, 655 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001 Please meet in the front of Crystal Palace on the 3rd floor near the Jacob Javits statue and Starbucks. Zebra's Big Show booth number is 3303.
Zebra Technologies is a dynamic community of builders, doers and problem solvers. We empower businesses to make every asset and worker visible, connected, and fully optimized. We take pride in creating a culture of respect, collaboration, inclusion and innovation. The NRF Student Program provides talented students interested in retail careers unique educational and scholarship programs, networking opportunities and access to the latest industry news and research. NRF Foundation Student Program attendees can join Zebra for a guided tour of our booth on Sunday, January 12 at 10:00 am or 4:00 pm. Sign up deadline: Dec 18, 2024 | Max capacity: 8 per tour
Sponsored by Zebra Technologies
Friday Jan. 10 | 9:30AM — 5:20PM
Insights and expertise from speakers across various sectors of the retail industry including merchandising, marketing, technology, entrepreneurship, sustainability and more.
9:30AM - 9:35AM
Main Stage
Welcome to the Student Program
Steven Preston
President and CEO
Goodwill Industries International
9:35AM - 10:15am
Main Stage
Sustainability in Action: IKEA's Vision for a Circular Future
Javier Quiñones
CEO & Chief Sustainability Officer
IKEA
Scot Case
CSR & Sustainability
National Retail Federation VP
10:15AM - 11:00AM
Main Stage
AI-Powered Design: A New Era of Creativity
Joshua Longo
Senior Director of Design: Hardgoods
Crate & Barrel
11:00AM - 11:20AM
11:20AM - 12:00PM
Main Stage
Young Professionals Panel
Alexia Densmore
Associate Buyer
ALDI
Megan Marr
Location Planning Analyst
Ross Stores, Inc.
Clay Lute
Global Merchant - Men's Denim
Calvin Klein
LeAnn Percivill
Brands Manager
Renovation Brands
12:00AM - 1:00PM
Provided by
1:00PM - 1:45PM
Main Stage
The Courage Factor: Unlocking your Leadership Potential
Tonya Hallett
Vice President - People eXperience Technology
Amazon
1:45PM - 2:30PM
Main Stage
The Power of Experiential Retail
Anna Harman
CEO & Co-Founder
Studs
Casey Lewis
Founder
After School
2:30PM - 2:50PM
Provided by
2:50PM - 3:35PM
Main Stage
Leading with Authenticity & Impact: Unleashing a Career in Store Leadership
Isaiah Brown
Senior Talent Manager
Nordstrom
Brittani Thomas
Program Manager, Early in Career Engagements & Partnerships
Nordstrom
3:40PM - 4:20pm
Main Stage
Merchandising for Social Purpose
Hannah Roshetko Raser
AVP of Front Store Strategy & Transformation
CVS Health
Ron Brown
Target
Vice President of Community Impact
Kimberly Lee Minor
CEO
WOC Retail Alliance
Mincdy Scheier
Founder & CEO
Runway of Dreams and GAMUT Management
4:20PM - 4:40PM
4:40PM - 5:20PM
Main Stage
The 4th Frontier: How UNIQLO Plans to Become the #1 Global Apparel Retailer
Yoshihide Shindo
CEO
UNIQLO USA
Sheneque Alexander
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager
Fast Retailing USA, Inc.
Friday Jan. 10 | 1:00PM - 4:20PM
Marriott Marquis Times Square - Westside Ballroom
The Future of Retail: Integrating Technology and Supply Chain Solutions
Go deeper with our breakout session for our NRF Foundation Ray Greenly Scholarship recipients. Limited spots will be made available for additional students registered for the Student Program.
1:00PM - 1:05PM
Breakout
Breakout Session Opening Remarks
Mark Irvin – Chief Supply Chain Officer, Best Buy
1:05AM – 1:45PM
Breakout
Navigating The Future: Career Paths in Retail Tech & Supply Chain
Speakers from Target, Kohl’s and DICK’S Sporting Goods will discuss their career paths in technology and/or supply chain and how they found their place in retail. They will share their backgrounds, and what excites them about their roles and the companies they work for, and the impact that their work has on the consumer and for the business.
1:45PM - 2:30PM
Breakout
Smart Solutions: Harnessing AI for Retail Excellence
In this session, Best Buy will discuss real use cases and stories of Artificial Intelligence use to improve customer experiences, optimize operations, and make data-driven decisions.
2:30PM - 3:30PM
Breakout
Networking Break with Recruiters
3:30PM - 4:15PM
Breakout
Real-Time Insights: The Impact of Digital Twin Technology on Business Strategy
In retail's fast-paced business environment, leveraging real-time data is crucial for effective decision-making. This panel conversation with Best Buy, Macy’s and Walmart will explore the concept of digital twin technology and how it is revolutionizing business strategy by providing actionable insights into operations, supply chain dynamics, and customer interactions.
7:00AM - 8:00AM
Provided by
Saturday Jan. 11 | 8:00AM — 11:00AM
Presented by American Express
More than 100 leaders from companies will join students for small round-table discussions during our signature NRF Foundation Executive Mentor Experience.
8:00AM
Main Stage
The Power of Mentorship
Laura Felice
Chief Financial Officer
BJ's Wholesale Club EVP
Ann Sattin
National Client Group Vice President and General Manager
American Express
Saturday Jan. 11 | 8:00AM - 11:15AM
An exclusive session just for educators attending the Student Program.
11:00AM - 12:00PM
Provided by
Saturday Jan. 11 | 11:30AM – 1:00PM
Juniors & Seniors
Saturday, Jan. 11 | 1:00PM – 3:00PM
All attendees
Connect with top retailers and begin the conversation to apply for internships and entry-level roles.
Saturday Jan. 11 | 12:00PM – 1:00PM
presented by PwC
Learn how to embrace challenges and grow stronger through the adversity you will face in your career journey.
Discover how an antifragile mindset transforms stress into strength and equips you to thrive in the dynamic world of retail. Freshmen, sophomores & educators only.
Sunday Jan. 12 | 8:00AM – 12:00PM
Invitation-only on-site interviews for internships and entry-level roles with retailers you met at the Career Fair on Saturday.
Sunday Jan. 12 | All Day
Students and educators receive access to NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show starting on Sunday. Make sure you register separately if you plan to attend.
Want to be on stage at NRF Foundation New York: Student Program? Share your company’s expertise with our students by applying to speak at our event.