Cara Smyth is a holistic systems thinker that strategically builds communities of change and practical solutions to complex challenges. With deep C-suite relationships and leadership experience, she is renowned for her ability to drive profitable sustainability, respecting the interconnectedness between economic, ecological, and social imperatives. Her expertise spans fashion, food, retail, supply chain, and consumer engagement.
 
After a distinguished career with global powerhouses such as Burberry, Jil Sander, and Hugo Boss and more than 15 years of experience in Europe, Ms. Smyth returned to New York and founded a catalyzing chief executive officer ecosystem to incubate scalable business solutions aimed at addressing the social and environmental impacts of fashion. The result was Fashion Makes Change (FMC), which is in collaboration with Rockefeller Philanthropy Advisors. Through regular convenings involving more than 50 chief executive officers representing over 275 brands, FMC fosters constructive collaboration among industry stakeholders, non-profits, and philanthropic entities.
 
Accenture, the global management consulting firm, tapped Ms. Smyth to spearhead their global retail sustainability and ESG practice. She builds data-driven environmental, social, and governance protocols that are essential for future-proofing businesses, recalibrating retail strategies to align with the evolving demands of investors, regulations, and consumers.
 
She frequently speaks about retail strategy and profitable sustainability with keynotes including WWD Sustainability Summit, Mizuho, Bloomberg Climate Exchange, the Museum of Modern Art, RILA Retail Industry Leaders Association, and Vogue’s Changemakers.
 
In an era where the importance of data-driven sustainability management is becoming ever more apparent, Ms. Smyth’s approach highlights the crucial role of harnessing insights to navigate the complexities of current business environments in pursuit of a more equitable and sustainable world.