Mari plays a vital role in ensuring that members receive the support and resources they need to thrive in the retail industry. With a focus on both member acquisition and retention, she actively engages with current and prospective members to highlight the value of association membership. By building strong relationships, addressing industry-specific needs, and developing programs that drive success, Mari contributes to the growth and impact of the association.

She brings over 30 years of experience in retail management, and training having worked across various retail sectors including specialty and department store management, loss prevention, specialty leasing, marketing, event planning and shopping center operations. Mari earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of New Hampshire, where she also served as a teaching assistant.

Mari holds a Certified Marketing Director designation from the International Council of Shopping Centers and is a certified trainer for the National Retail Federation Foundation’s RISE Up curriculum. In December 2022, she completed the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Talent Pipeline Management Academy.

She also oversees the expansion of the NRF Foundation’s RISE Up retail training credentials within the industry and manages the Business Education Partnership Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization focused on workforce development.

Outside of her professional work, Mari has a deep passion for animals and the natural world. She is a Certified Interpretive Guide, accredited by the National Association for Interpretation, and has served as a Docent at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center in Holderness, NH since 2005.