Andrea France

Andrea France is a seasoned Retail and Consumer Products Executive with over 30 years of experience driving innovation at the intersection of technology, sales, and retail operations. Based in Chicago, Illinois, she has built a distinguished career leading enterprise sales initiatives, developing retail technology systems, and guiding business transformation across global consumer industries. A proud alumna of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Andrea’s professional journey reflects her passion for integrating AI and digital solutions to enhance customer engagement and streamline retail performance. Throughout her career, Andrea has held key leadership roles at prominent organizations including Workday, EY, Capgemini and SAP Retail, Her expertise spans consumer products and retail systems development, marketing, business development, and strategic partnerships. Known for her cross-functional and cross-industry insight, Andrea has consistently driven change and innovation, helping companies embrace new technologies and adapt to evolving market dynamics. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, process optimization, and the continuous pursuit of excellence. Andrea has also volunteered at the American Apparel and Footwear Association and was President of the Supply Chain and Product Innovation Committee, and has recently been certified in "AI for Work and Life" from the University of North Florida,

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Andrea is deeply committed to giving back through community service and mentorship. She volunteers with organizations such as AARP Senior Planet, providing technology training to older adults, and Edgewater Village Chicago, a grassroots, volunteer, nonprofit organization of older adults (50+) enhancing their quality of life as they age, so they remain active and contributing members of the community, where she manages their website and coordinates with the Alderman and local leaders. She also is a member of Northwestern University’s School of Professional Studies, The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). a vibrant member-driven cooperative learning community, which generates an exciting and intellectually challenging curriculum of more than 100 study groups per semester, serving over 1100 members. Composed of seasoned learners from all walks of life, OLLI members pursue learning for pure pleasure. Andrea has coordinated and led classes in fashion and retail topics as well as Artificial Intelligence.

Andrea has previously volunteered at The Chicago Art Deco Society, Dress for Success Worldwide, and has served on the Board of Directors for Between Friends, a nonprofit dedicated to ending domestic violence. Combining her passion for AI, retail innovation, and social impact, Andrea continues to inspire industry peers and future leaders with her forward-thinking perspective and unwavering dedication to progress.

• University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - BA

• Dress for Success Worldwide
• Between Friends
• Chicago Art Deco Society
• AARP
• Edgewater Village Chicago