Retail Design Institute Executive and Leadership Team

Janine Buettner, the President, St. Louis Chapter at Retail Design Institute, directs regional chapter operations and member engagement within the St. Louis area. This leadership position involves fostering a local community of creative professionals dedicated to advancing retail design standards. Buettner oversees chapter events, networking initiatives, and educational programming tailored to the specific needs of members in the region. The St. Louis Chapter's activities directly support the Institute's broader mission of enhancing careers and shaping the future of retail through localized collaboration. By ensuring robust chapter programming, Janine Buettner strengthens the Institute's presence and impact across North America, driving participation and knowledge sharing among its membership base. This role is critical for maintaining the Institute's status as a leading non-profit organization in store planning and design.

Cynthia Ortiz, the President, International at Retail Design Institute, spearheads global expansion and international chapter development. This executive role focuses on extending the Institute's reach and influence across diverse global markets, ensuring consistent standards and collaborative opportunities worldwide. Ortiz manages relationships with international stakeholders and oversees the establishment of new chapters, adapting the Institute's resources and events to suit varied regional demands. The international scope of this position is vital for the organization's growth, connecting professionals across continents and fostering a truly global dialogue in retail design. Cynthia Ortiz drives initiatives that promote cross-cultural exchange and innovation, reinforcing the Institute's commitment to empowering members through worldwide collaboration and education. This leadership ensures the Institute remains at the forefront of global retail design trends and best practices.

Anthony Pastore, the President at Retail Design Institute, provides overarching strategic direction and leadership for the organization. This executive role involves guiding the Institute's mission to foster a collaborative community for creative professionals in the retail design industry. Pastore directs the organization's long-term vision, focusing on enhancing member careers and shaping the future of retail through innovation and education. Overseeing key initiatives, including prestigious awards and design competitions, Anthony Pastore ensures the Institute maintains its position as the largest non-profit dedicated to store planning and design. This leadership drives the organization's commitment to empowering members through collaboration, education, and the continuous pursuit of excellence in retail environments. Pastore's strategic oversight is fundamental to the Institute's enduring impact and relevance.

Faith Huddleston, the President at Retail Design Institute, executes strategic initiatives that advance the organization's core objectives. This leadership role centers on driving member value through comprehensive resources, impactful events, and robust networking opportunities. Huddleston focuses on enhancing the professional development of creative individuals within the retail design sector. The President's responsibilities include overseeing the planning and execution of educational programs and social gatherings, such as the Design Awards and international competitions. Faith Huddleston champions the Institute's mission to empower members via collaboration, education, and innovation, solidifying its status as a premier non-profit entity. This executive's efforts are crucial for maintaining the Institute's influence in shaping the evolving landscape of retail store planning and design.

Jefferson Dunn, the President at Retail Design Institute, directs critical operational functions that support the organization's strategic goals. This executive role involves ensuring the efficient delivery of resources, events, and networking opportunities to members of the retail design community. Dunn focuses on optimizing internal processes and enhancing the member experience, aligning operational activities with the Institute's mission of career enhancement and industry advancement. The President's oversight extends to the successful execution of educational initiatives and prestigious industry events, including design competitions. Jefferson Dunn's leadership ensures the Institute operates effectively as a non-profit organization, empowering its members through collaboration and innovation. This role is essential for maintaining the Institute's reputation and operational excellence in store planning and design.

Jesse Moyer, the President at Retail Design Institute, leads the charge in fostering innovation and educational advancement within the retail design industry. This executive position focuses on developing and implementing programs that equip creative professionals with the latest knowledge and skills. Moyer oversees the strategic direction of the Institute's educational offerings, including workshops, seminars, and the prestigious Design Awards. The President's role is pivotal in ensuring the organization remains a leading resource for store planning and design professionals. Jesse Moyer champions the Institute's commitment to empowering members through collaboration and cutting-edge education, driving forward the collective expertise of the retail design community. This leadership cultivates an environment of continuous learning and professional growth.

Annie Greenhouse, the President at Retail Design Institute, drives strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives that strengthen the organization's community. This executive role focuses on building bridges between creative professionals, fostering an environment where ideas and best practices are freely exchanged. Greenhouse oversees the development of networking opportunities and member engagement strategies designed to enhance career trajectories within the retail design industry. The President's responsibilities include ensuring the Institute's events, such as its international design competition, serve as platforms for significant professional interaction and growth. Annie Greenhouse champions the Institute's mission to empower members through robust collaboration and shared learning, reinforcing its position as a vital non-profit entity. This leadership cultivates a dynamic and supportive ecosystem for retail designers.

Heidi Waller, the Board President at Retail Design Institute, provides critical governance and strategic oversight for the organization's direction. This executive role involves leading the Board of Directors in setting the Institute's long-term vision and ensuring adherence to its mission of advancing retail design. Waller focuses on fiduciary responsibilities and strategic planning, guiding the Institute's efforts to empower members through collaboration, education, and innovation. The Board President's leadership ensures the organization's financial health and operational integrity, supporting initiatives like the Design Awards and international competitions. Heidi Waller's governance is essential for maintaining the Institute's status as a leading non-profit dedicated to store planning and design, championing excellence and professional development across the industry. This role ensures sustained impact and relevance.

James Botha, the President at Retail Design Institute, directs the organization's strategic outreach and member development programs. This executive role focuses on expanding the Institute's reach and enhancing the value proposition for its members in the retail design industry. Botha oversees initiatives aimed at career enhancement and professional growth, ensuring members have access to essential resources and networking opportunities. The President's responsibilities include championing the Institute's educational events and prestigious competitions, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and collaboration. James Botha's leadership ensures the Institute effectively empowers its community, solidifying its position as a key non-profit organization in store planning and design. This focus drives engagement and strengthens the collective expertise of its membership.

Maria Albulescu, the President, Lakes Chapter (Chicago) at Retail Design Institute, leads regional operations and member engagement within the Chicago area and surrounding Lakes Chapter territory. This executive position focuses on cultivating a vibrant local network of creative professionals dedicated to advancing retail design. Albulescu oversees chapter-specific events, educational programming, and networking activities designed to meet the unique needs of members in this key geographic region. The Lakes Chapter's initiatives directly contribute to the Institute's overarching goal of enhancing careers and shaping the future of retail through localized collaboration. By ensuring strong chapter leadership and programming, Maria Albulescu reinforces the Institute's national presence and its commitment to empowering members through education and innovation in store planning and design.