Strategic Planning and Management in Retailing

Dates: April 25-30, 2026

Format: In-Person

Babson Executive Conference Center, Wellesley, Massachusetts

As the global retail industry becomes increasingly competitive, retail leaders need a data-driven strategy to remain agile and prepared to face the next inevitable challenge. Develop the data-driven retail strategy you need not only to survive, but thrive, in a global retail marketplace.

During this intensive certificate program, you will gain a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the retail industry, from shifting technology to globalization and consolidation, and how to turn them into growth opportunities. Learn the tools you need to analyze performance, respond to shifting consumer behavior, and lead a high-performing retail business with clarity and confidence. From merchandise planning to market research and integrated business strategy, every topic is built to help you improve profitability, productivity, and long-term impact.

At the end of the experience, you will have a fully formed, data-backed retail strategy designed to drive and sustain growth.

What you will learn Who should attend What is included Credential Earned

Build a competitive advantage in retailing using Eight Ways to Win in Retailing, a proprietary model that uses productivity analysis and financial modeling for strategic growth
Make smarter, data-driven decisions by analyzing and interpreting consumer, competitive, and market research
Maximize revenue and customer satisfaction by developing and implementing enhanced merchandising management and assortment strategies

Senior retailers who are seeking new methods for growing successful brick-and-mortar stores

Tuition and all program materials
Room and board, as well as daily lunches, snacks, and refreshments at the Babson Executive Conference Center

Please note: Travel and personal expenses are not included (such as alcoholic beverages consumed with meals and other incidentals).

Recognition and Credentialing: An advanced certificate that serves as verifiable proof of learning and achievement, which can be displayed on platforms such as LinkedIn and included on your resume and portfolio
Course Content and Learning Outcomes: You gain industry-relevant knowledge, practical skills, and frameworks designed for professionals seeking career advancement or specialization
Expert Instruction: Experienced faculty, industry leaders, and professionals with real-world expertise teach our courses
Networking Opportunities: You gain access to a network of peers, alumni, and industry professionals.
Alumni Affiliate Status: Click here for more information

Upon completion of this program, you will earn an advanced certificate.

What you need to know

Course Structure

Costs & Program Discounts

Course Leaders

Lawrence J. Ring

Chancellor Professor of Business and Executive MBA, Alumni Distinguished Professor of Executive Education, Emeritus, Raymond A. Mason School of Business, College of William & Mary

Professor Lawrence J. Ring is the founder and was the first director of William & Mary’s Executive MBA Program and also served the business school as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs. Ring’s teaching and research interests center on the areas of marketing management and marketing and retailing strategy. He is co-author of several marketing and management books and has published a variety of scholarly articles, technical notes, and cases. He has served as a member of the boards of directors of Acme Markets of Virginia; Mr. Price Group, Ltd., Durban, South Africa; and many others.

Ronald L. Hess Jr.

Lawrence J. Ring Executive MBA Associate Professor of Business, Raymond A. Mason School of Business, College of William & Mary

Professor Ronald L. Hess Jr. has considerable experience in consulting and executive education. He has published his research in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, Journal of Retailing, Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, Journal of Service Marketing, Journal of Retailing and Consumer Services, Service Business, and Marketing Letters.

John S. Strong

CSX Professor of Finance and Economics, Raymond A. Mason School of Business, College of William & Mary

Professor John S. Strong’s expertise and interest involves financial analysis of companies, especially in the areas of productivity performance, merchandise analysis, capital investments, acquisitions, and dividend and repurchase policies. He has published several articles and cases on these subjects. In addition to his retail activities, Strong has worked extensively on transport policy issues and has worked on logistics and transport infrastructure projects around the world.

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Professional & Executive Education

Professional & Executive Education