Brenda Runkle

Brenda Runkle is an accomplished retail leader and visual merchandising professional with over 15 years of experience driving sales and elevating customer experiences through innovative store design and team development. Currently serving as Retail Store Manager at Ace Hardware Corporation, she has held leadership roles at IKEA, Tommy Bahama, DICK’S Sporting Goods, and Vera Bradley, where she oversaw visual merchandising strategies for more than 60 stores. Her expertise spans floor set execution, training, team building, and creating compelling retail environments that connect customers with a brand’s story.

Throughout her career, Brenda has been dedicated to developing people as much as products. She is highly experienced in training staff on brand expectations, fostering collaboration across merchant, allocation, design, and marketing teams, and ensuring seamless communication to achieve successful product launches and store openings. She is passionate about mentoring and investing in her teams, helping them grow into confident retail professionals who understand the power of presentation and customer engagement.

Outside of her corporate accomplishments, Brenda is deeply committed to giving back. She has volunteered with Pathway Community Church and Feed My Starving Children, providing disaster relief after Hurricane Katrina and continuing her service in humanitarian efforts. With a background in merchandising management from the International Academy of Merchandising & Design, Brenda combines creativity, leadership, and compassion, making her a respected figure in both the retail industry and her community.

• International Academy of Merchandising & Design - AS