This year, I had the incredible honour of chairing the Online Retailer Conference 2023, a prestigious event that brought together some of the brightest minds in the retail industry.
Over the course of two days, we dived into topics that are not only close to my heart but also vital in today’s rapidly evolving world of ecommerce: diversity, inclusivity, and the remarkable ways in which technology is reshaping our shopping experiences.
Ecommerce and Retailer Expert Speakers
The Online Retailer Conference 2023 was a remarkable coming together of thought leaders, featuring an impressive lineup of 110 speakers from both international and local domains. These experts joined forces to share their insights, strategies, and visions for the future of online retail.
Ecommerce Solutions Providers Galore
The event was not just a forum for ideas but also a marketplace for innovation, with 140 ecommerce solution providers and a conference full of the smartest retailers in Australia. Attendees had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies, software solutions, and strategies to propel their online retail ventures forward.
A Focus on Diversity and Inclusivity in Retail
One of the most memorable moments of the conference was sharing the stage with my esteemed brother, Jason Ajai, Founder – InterviewFit, to discuss a topic that lies at the core of our values: diversity in ecommerce. With over 30 years of experience in the field of recruitment, he brought a wealth of knowledge and insights regarding bias, the hiring process, and the immeasurable value that a diverse team brings to a business.
The Power of Diverse Thinkers in Retail
During our session, we underscored a fundamental truth – having diverse thinkers in your team not only fosters a culture of inclusivity but also significantly boosts profits. Diverse teams bring a range of perspectives to the table, enabling more innovative problem-solving and a deeper understanding of customer needs. It was a privilege to stand on that stage and advocate for the importance of diversity in eccommerce alongside my brother, Jason.
Chairing the Online Retailer Conference and Expo 2023 was an experience I will forever cherish. It provided a platform to explore the ever-changing landscape of ecommerce, where technology is revolutionising the way we shop and engage with brands. Moreover, it allowed us to champion the values of diversity and inclusivity, not merely as buzzwords but as integral components of a thriving and forward-thinking industry.
As we look to the future of retail, it’s clear that diversity and technology will continue to play pivotal roles in shaping our shopping experiences. This event was a testament to the incredible potential that lies at the intersection of innovation and inclusion. I’m super proud, privileged, and humbled to share this stage with the brilliant minds and forward-thinkers driving the ecommerce industry into a brighter and more diverse future.
BIO
Kelly Slessor, is an Ecommerce Coach and a digital marketing expert. Passionate about retail, hospitality and retail service providers. As the founder and CEO of Shop You, an AI powered personalised virtual shopping mall she has spent 20 years building retail technology that responds to customer needs, drives conversions and increases revenue. Over the past year she has worked with over 1000 retailers and hospitality providers. If you want discover more about digital growth and optimisation, work with me.
