Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Hudson's Bay Company CEO Helena Foulkes
Mar 9, 2019
Helena Foulkes, CEO of Hudson's Bay Company and a former CVS executive, dives into the dynamic world of retail innovation. She discusses her transition from CVS to Hudson's Bay and the strategies behind revitalizing department stores. Foulkes shares her insights on the importance of creating memorable shopping experiences and the necessity of blending digital with physical retail. She addresses the challenges of competing with giants like Amazon and explores how data can reshape the future of retail.
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Uber CEO Consideration
- Helena Foulkes was considered for the Uber CEO position.
- This was early in her transition from CVS to Hudson's Bay Company.
CVS Career
- Foulkes spent 25 years at CVS in various roles.
- She eventually became president of the retail business, overseeing $80 billion in sales, 10,000 stores, and 220,000 employees.
Attraction to HBC
- Foulkes was drawn to Hudson's Bay Company's innovative approach.
- The company's willingness to think outside the box, like selling the Lord & Taylor flagship building to WeWork, appealed to her.