Retail Design Institute Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Retail Design Institute has 4 executives leading key functions including organizational strategy, regional chapter management, international design advocacy, and professional development.

Dedicated to fostering creative excellence, Retail Design Institute empowers retail design professionals through collaborative networking, educational resources, and industry-leading design awards that shape the future of global store planning.

Leadership Roles at Retail Design Institute

  • President - Annie Greenhouse
  • President, St. Louis Chapter - Janine Buettner
  • RDI President - Sanjay Agarwal
  • President - James Botha
  • Annie Greenhouse - President

    Annie Greenhouse, the President at Retail Design Institute, directs the overarching strategic vision for this collaborative community of creative professionals. Overseeing the expansion of educational resources, the President ensures that members gain access to cutting-edge industry insights and networking opportunities. Annie Greenhouse manages the execution of the prestigious Design Awards, elevating the standard of store planning across international markets. By fostering partnerships with industry leaders, the President drives innovation within the retail design sector. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Board to maintain the non-profit mission while scaling membership benefits. Through consistent engagement with the creative community, the President strengthens the organization's influence on global retail environments. The strategic focus remains on providing value to designers, architects, and planners, ensuring the Institute remains the premier resource for professional growth and industry advancement in the modern retail landscape.

    Janine Buettner - President, St. Louis Chapter

    Janine Buettner, the President, St. Louis Chapter at Retail Design Institute, manages regional operations and local member engagement within the Midwest market. Overseeing the planning of educational and social events, the President, St. Louis Chapter facilitates critical networking opportunities for creative professionals. Janine Buettner coordinates with national leadership to align local initiatives with the broader mission of the Institute. By cultivating a robust community of store planners and designers, the President, St. Louis Chapter drives regional participation in the international design competition. This leadership role involves identifying local industry trends and translating those insights into actionable programming for members. Through active outreach and event management, the President, St. Louis Chapter ensures that the organization maintains a strong presence in the regional retail design sector. The focus remains on building a collaborative environment that supports career development and innovation for all local members.
    Janine Buettner

    Sanjay Agarwal - RDI President

    Sanjay Agarwal, the RDI President at Retail Design Institute, architects the long-term growth strategy for the organization's international design advocacy efforts. Overseeing the development of global standards for store planning, the RDI President ensures that the Institute remains at the forefront of retail innovation. Sanjay Agarwal manages the integration of new technologies into the organization's educational framework, supporting members in adapting to evolving market demands. By collaborating with international design firms, the RDI President expands the reach of the Institute's professional development programs. This leadership role involves balancing the needs of a diverse membership base with the operational requirements of a non-profit entity. Through strategic oversight of the international design competition, the RDI President elevates the visibility of creative excellence. The focus remains on driving sustainable growth and maintaining the Institute's status as the primary authority for retail design professionals worldwide.

    James Botha - President

    James Botha, the President at Retail Design Institute, executes the operational strategy for member services and professional certification programs. Overseeing the administration of the Institute's extensive resource library, the President ensures that creative professionals receive the tools necessary for career advancement. James Botha manages the financial health of the organization, directing funds toward high-impact educational events and industry research. By fostering relationships with corporate partners, the President secures the resources required to support the non-profit mission. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional chapters to ensure consistent delivery of member benefits across all territories. Through the implementation of streamlined communication channels, the President enhances the collaborative experience for the entire community. The focus remains on driving operational efficiency and ensuring that the Institute continues to provide unparalleled support for those shaping the future of retail design and store planning.
    James Botha

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Retail Design Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Retail Design Institute?
    Retail Design Institute is led by Annie Greenhouse (President), along with executives such as Janine Buettner (President, St. Louis Chapter) and Sanjay Agarwal (RDI President).
    Who is part of Retail Design Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Retail Design Institute includes leaders such as Annie Greenhouse (President), Janine Buettner (President, St. Louis Chapter), Sanjay Agarwal (RDI President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Retail Design Institute have?
    Retail Design Institute has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Retail Design Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Retail Design Institute includes roles such as President, President, St. Louis Chapter, RDI President, President.