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Women in Retail & FMCG Leadership Summit 2025


11th - 15th, August 2025 / Sydney, AU
SAVE UP TO $500
Discount ends in 28 days

OVERVIEW


Empowering women to navigate change, drive innovation, and thrive in an evolving industry

• Learn how to thrive in an evolving retail and FMCG landscape
-Leave inspired and ready to take on complex challenges
• Discover strategies to build resilience and confidence
• Develop your skill set to excel in a fast-paced work environment

SPEAKERS


Chloe Blake

Chloe Blake is a Certified Organisational and Mental Fitness Coach. For over two decades she has worked in Human Resources and Leadership Development across a range of industries. Chloe now partners with businesses in a coaching, consulting and facilitation capacity. Chloe has worked in Europe, New Zealand and Australia and no matter the country or industry, her partners thoroughly value the energy, experience, and zest she brings to her role. Chloe enables people to reach their highest potential. Through her expert facilitation, you can walk away with the capacity to perform at your best for yourself, your teams, and your organisations.

Leadership Expert & Executive Coach
Chloe Blake Coaching & Consulting

Dr Karen Whittingham

Karen is one of Australia’s leading executive management development specialists who has worked with thousands of executives to transition them into senior leadership roles quickly and effectively. She is an organisational psychologist passionate about people’s success and facilitating their careers to rise. She teaches organisational psychology at UNSW and works with ASX listed companies and large public sector organisations to drive engagement, inclusion, and performance.

Leadership Expert & Executive Coach
Impact Psychology Pty Ltd

  • Leanne White

    General Manager , Grocery

    Coles Group
  • Sarah Sternau

    Managing Director

    eBay
  • Sarah Burn

    Vice President, Transformation & Change

    Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
  • Carrie Kirkman

    General Manager, Head Merchant

    Target
  • Alicia Eggington

    Vice President, Sales & Beauty Care

    Procter & Gamble Australia
  • Amanda Menegazzo

    General Manager, Merchandise

    Super Retail Group
  • Camilla Warnock

    Traditional Trade & Field Director

    PepsiCo
  • Christine Faulkner

    Head of Commercial Toys & Leisure

    Big W
  • Alex Arvanitis

    Vice President, Planning Logistics & Business Processes

    Suntory
  • Bridget Veals

    General Manager, Womenswear, Footwear & Accessories

    David Jones
  • Lauren Fildes

    General Manager, Marketing

    Asahi Beverages
  • Andra Dempster

    Senior Director

    Mondelez Australia
  • Sarah McCartney

    Corporate Affairs Director

    Mars Petcare
  • Dimity Mitsis

    General Manager, Retail

    Oroton Group
  • Linda Armstrong

    Finance Director, ANZ

    Jacobs Douwe Egberts
  • Gayle Burchell

    Chief Commercial & Sustainability Officer

    THE ICONIC
  • Jana Kotatko

    Executive, Telstra Retail & Regional

    Telstra
  • Gemma Howells

    Leadership Expert & Former Woolworths General Manager

    Solutions 4 Life Consulting
  • Heidi Horne

    Leadership Expert & Executive Coach

    Heidi Horne

AGENDA



Workshop

Emotional Intelligence essentials

- Understand EI and its importance in life and the workplace

- Assess your strengths, development areas and emotional triggers

- Embrace self-awareness, social awareness, and empathy 


Applying EI in a team environment 

- Build meaningful connections across the Retail and FMCG industry

- Develop strategies to lead, motivate and influence different stakeholders

- Create a personalised action plan for integrating EI in fast paced workplaces


Preparing for challenging conversations

- Identify the barriers that prevent people from having difficult conversations 

- How to build rapport with teams, customers, suppliers

- Strategies for effective communication


Tackling conflict and promoting collaboration

- Develop your conflict resolution skills

- Define your objective and remain solution-focused

- Create an action plan for real world scenarios

  • Dr Karen Whittingham Leadership Expert & Executive Coach Impact Psychology Pty Ltd

Join Liquid Learning for this kick-off session as we prepare for two days of incredible speakers, senior leaders, expert deep-dives and unmissable panel discussions!

Case Study

As the retail and FMCG sector continue to evolve, so too must its leadership. The path to a truly inclusive, safe, and equitable industry begins with those willing to lead differently, those who create space for others to thrive. We kick off the summit with Alicia Eggington, sharing insights from her personal leadership journey, one shaped by bold decisions, genuine connection, and the drive to create inclusive cultures.


- Practical strategies to cultivate collaboration and trust within diverse teams

- Navigating the complexities of cross-cultural communication

- Leading systemic change to support long-term growth

  • Alicia Eggington Vice President, Sales & Beauty Care Procter & Gamble Australia

Case Study

Change is constant, but how you lead through it defines the experience for those around you. In times of uncertainty, your team looks to you not just for direction, but for stability, empathy, and clarity. In this session, Jana draws on her extensive experience guiding large teams through complex organisational transformation. Discover the mindset, strategies, and leadership behaviours that have helped her maintain strong, values-led leadership during periods of disruption, while ensuring her people feel supported, heard, and empowered to adapt.


- Learn how to empower your teams through periods of change

- Create a workplace culture that embraces change and encourages collaboration

- Building resilient teams in times of transition

  • Jana Kotatko Executive, Telstra Retail & Regional Telstra

Mix and mingle with your fellow leaders over a cup of coffee and light refreshments.

Expert Commentary

Every leadership decision, whether it's about people, performance, or purpose, has the power to shape an organisation. This hands-on session pulls back the curtain on how successful leaders think, decide, and act. Drawing on her extensive experience at iconic brands including Cadbury, Mars and Woolworths, Gemma unpacks the key drivers behind impactful leadership decisions and how recognising them can help you elevate your own influence and accelerate your career progression.


- Discover how to adapt your leadership style to handle complex decision

- Learn to communicate like a leader

- Leverage the decision-making strategies of successful leaders to enhance your own

  • Gemma Howells Leadership Expert & Former Woolworths General Manager Solutions 4 Life Consulting

Case Study

In an industry where change is constant and innovation is non-negotiable, successful leaders can’t just react to challenges, they must evolve. From navigating high-stakes change to building agile, future-ready teams, Sarah as she takes you inside her leadership journey at the forefront of global e-commerce transformation at eBay. Discover what it really takes to lead through complexity and deliver impact at scale.


- How to empower your team to embrace uncertainty and lead through change

- Practical approaches to embed agility into team culture and operations

- Insights into designing seamless, customer-first experiences during transformation

  • Sarah Sternau Managing Director eBay

Enjoy a midday lunch break. A time to refresh, refuel, and prepare for a full afternoon of immersive learning and inspiration.

Panel

As technology, consumer expectations, and business models shift at speed, leaders in retail and FMCG must continually evolve to stay ahead. This exclusive panel brings together a diverse line-up of industry leaders and innovators to explore what it takes to lead through change in one of the most fast-paced and competitive sectors. From leveraging AI and digital transformation, to fostering cultures of innovation and adaptability, our panellists will share hard-won insights, lessons learned, and bold visions for the future.


- How technology and AI are reshaping the retail and FMCG landscape - and what leaders need to know

- The leadership skills to navigate transformation and drive sustainable success

- How to unlock growth, innovation, and new market opportunities

  • Leanne White General Manager , Grocery Coles Group

  • Bridget Veals General Manager, Womenswear, Footwear & Accessories David Jones

  • Andra Dempster Senior Director Mondelez Australia

  • Gayle Burchell Chief Commercial & Sustainability Officer THE ICONIC

Case Study

True leadership begins from within, and the ability to harness confidence, resilience, and self-belief is what allows great leaders to rise above complexity and lead with conviction. Join Carrie Kirkman, trailblazing retail executive, former CEO of Sears Canada, and now a senior leader at Target, as she shares powerful insights from her leadership journey. From reimagining retail strategies to navigating high-stakes transformation, Carrie reflects on how to embrace bold decision-making, build inner strength, and stay true to your values.


- How to lead with confidence and make bold, values-led decisions

- Tools to build inner resilience and navigate leadership challenges with courage and purpose

- Practical strategies to inspire your team

  • Carrie Kirkman General Manager, Head Merchant Target

A quick break to refresh and continue building your network with fellow leaders. Enjoy a light refreshment before finishing day one.

Case Study

With constant innovation, evolving consumer behaviours, and shifting global dynamics, the most effective leaders remain grounded in their purpose and present with their people. In this session, Sarah shares her experience steering transformation at scale in one of the world’s most recognised brands. Unpack what it means to lead with both strength and empathy in a high-pressure, fast-moving environment, and how to take your people on the journey with you.


- How to lead with purpose and clarity amidst shifting priorities

- Practical strategies to support and empower your team in uncertain times

- Embracing a resilient mindset 

  • Sarah Burn Vice President, Transformation & Change Coca-Cola Europacific Partners

As day one of the conference comes to a close, take a moment to reflect on today's insights and how they can shape your journey. What key takeaways will help you move closer to your personal and professional goals?

Join us for our end of day one networking. Enjoy canapés and drinks whilst getting to know your peers further, build ongoing relationships, and share your highlights of the day.


Case Study

The pace of technological change in Retail and FMCG is accelerating, reshaping the way we work and compete. As leaders, embracing change isn’t just about keeping up, it’s about staying ahead and enabling our teams to succeed. In this session, Linda explores practical strategies to integrate AI while empowering your people.


- Shift mindsets to see technological change as a driver of innovation and growth

- Build adaptability and resilience to ensure your team thrives in a changing environment

- Leverage AI to drive productivity, enhance decision-making and create a competitive edge

  • Linda Armstrong Finance Director, ANZ Jacobs Douwe Egberts

Case Study

In today's evolving landscape how do you attract and retain top tier talent? Join Dimity as she dissects what it means to be a strong leader and find the best people for your team. Dimity will explore strategies for fostering a culture of innovation, adaptability, and continuous learning, while also highlighting the importance of aligning your team's skills and expertise with ever-changing demands.


- Discover how to cultivate a strong leadership presence

- Walk away ready to empower your team

- Gain valuable insights into leadership and talent management 

  • Dimity Mitsis General Manager, Retail Oroton Group

Mix and mingle with your fellow leaders over a cup of coffee and light refreshments.

Expert Commentary

We live in a world of information overload, where constant competing demands on our attention have made work overload, and decision fatigue an increasingly widespread issue. Recognising the sources of work overload is crucial, but it's also important to learn strategies to reduce the cognitive load that accompanies it, so you can make great decisions while performing under pressure. Join Karen as she shares practical tips for identifying and managing your work overload stressors.


- Explore the neuroscience of working memory and attention.

- Understand the importance of monitoring your mental energy level

- Practice a relaxation technique to reduce stress and get your cognitive energy back

  • Dr Karen Whittingham Leadership Expert & Executive Coach Impact Psychology Pty Ltd

Case Study

When leadership roles in traditionally male-dominated industries remain scarce for women, Alex has carved out her own path to success, overcoming challenges and embracing opportunities for growth. In this session, Alex will share her inspiring journey, offering valuable insights into the strategies that enabled her to break through barriers and advance in her career. She will explore the obstacles she faced, the lessons learned, and the ways in which she has empowered other women to do the same. Join Alex as she shares practical strategies for navigating leadership in male-dominated sectors and ignites a conversation about empowering women to rise to the top.


- Navigating challenges in male-dominated Industries

- Discover how to turn obstacles into opportunities

- Strategies for breaking through barriers

  • Alex Arvanitis Vice President, Planning Logistics & Business Processes Suntory

Enjoy a midday lunch break. A time to refresh, refuel, and prepare for a full afternoon of immersive learning and inspiration.

Panel

How do you turn connections into opportunities? In today’s fast-evolving world, it’s not just about what you know, but who you know, and how you engage with those around you. Building connections can open doors to new opportunities and help navigate the challenges faced. This panel brings together established leaders from across the Retail & FMCG sectors to share their experiences, and offer practical insights into the power of networking.  


- Learn the importance of building a supportive community 

- Understand how mentorship is a tool for success 

- See how networking leads to opportunities 

  • Amanda Menegazzo General Manager, Merchandise Super Retail Group

  • Camilla Warnock Traditional Trade & Field Director PepsiCo

  • Christine Faulkner Head of Commercial Toys & Leisure Big W

  • Lauren Fildes General Manager, Marketing Asahi Beverages

  • Sarah McCartney Corporate Affairs Director Mars Petcare

Expert Commentary

Conflict at work is something we all face at some point. Some people thrive in this environment of tension and competitive energy but for others it can have a real effect on their ability to get the job done. Learning to deal with conflict is a crucial skill to succeed at work - It can lead to higher job satisfaction, stronger relationships with colleagues, and innovation. Join expert facilitator, Chloe Blake, as she provides you with strategies, tools and frameworks for navigating conflict and dealing with those difficult conversations at work.


- Identify the barriers that prevent people from having difficult conversations

- Define your objective and remain solution-focused

- Develop active listening strategies to preserve your professional relationships

  • Chloe Blake Leadership Expert & Executive Coach Chloe Blake Coaching & Consulting

A quick break to refresh and continue building your network with fellow leaders. Enjoy a light refreshment before finishing day one.

Case Study

Great leadership isn’t about avoiding challenges, it’s about embracing them. How does one leader navigate the complex crises and transformations while shaping the reputations of leading organisations. In this inspiring session, she will share how she turned challenges into opportunities, built influence in high-stakes environments, and used uncertainty as a catalyst for growth. Through real-world insights, you will be empowered to develop the confidence and strategic mindset needed to thrive.


- The power of resilience and adaptability in navigating disruption

- Lessons from crisis management that can shape stronger leadership

- How to lead with influence, even in challenging corporate landscapes

Roundtable

We wrap up our inspirational and jam packed two days with this interactive action planning session. This is your chance to table any topic or trend for a final group discussion. Reflecting on the inspiring stories that have been shared, discussing your key learnings with your peers, and creating your action plan for moving forward.

- Reflect on your key learnings from the Summit

- Identify opportunities for career progression and growth

- Create an action plan for your leadership journey

Workshop

Develop self-awareness and authenticity

- Align your values to lead authentically

- Identify your strengths and potential challenges

- Optimise your leadership style for your organisation


Advanced communication and influence

- Manage emotions for effective communication

- Develop your “conversational intelligence”

- Prepare for and navigate difficult conversations 


Develop reflective leadership

- Recognise the benefits of reflection

- Develop skills for effective reflective practice

- Apply reflection to enhance organisational culture


Strategic career progression

- Create a personal leadership plan

- Build relationships for professional opportunities

- Manage personal branding and visibility

  • Chloe Blake Leadership Expert & Executive Coach Chloe Blake Coaching & Consulting

  • Chloe Blake Leadership Expert & Executive Coach Chloe Blake Coaching & Consulting

Workshop

Accelerate team performance

- Leverage team dynamics to optimise performance

- Challenge, support, and empower others

- Develop strategies to manage disruptors


Drive change and innovation

- Recognise and overcome obstacles

- Trust your instincts, embrace risks, and push boundaries

- Create a culture of positive change 


Remain productive in a crisis

- Build resilience to thrive under pressure

- Support your team and engage others to deliver

- Provide and accept feedback after crisis


Action planning for leadership

- Plan approaches for short and long-term goals

- Identify and understand challenges

- Share approaches to move your career forward

  • Chloe Blake Leadership Expert & Executive Coach Chloe Blake Coaching & Consulting

GROUP DISCOUNTS

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ENDS IN 28 DAYS

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Ends May 02

SAVE UP TO $500

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Ends July 04

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VENUE


Intercontinental Hotel, Sydney

117 Macquarie Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia

02 9253 9000

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