A Strategic Leadership Programme for Senior Retail Executives
The BRC Retail Masters Programme is an advanced leadership experience for senior leaders who are directly shaping the future of retail.
As the industry evolves at pace, today’s retail executives must lead with clarity, navigate complexity, and drive transformation across their organisations.
This programme is designed to build the strategic capabilities needed to lead at the highest level—focusing on operational excellence, cross-functional leadership, and future-focused thinking.
Through expert-led sessions, peer collaboration, and practical application, participants will gain the insights and tools to strengthen their impact on people, profit, and sustainable progress.
Who is the Retail Masters for?
Senior leaders in retail who are looking to:
- Shape strategic direction and need fresh insights to drive growth and profitability.
- Lead transformation initiatives and want proven frameworks to accelerate change.
- Own customer experience or innovation and aim to future-proof their retail strategy.
- Influence cross-functional decisions and seek collaborative solutions to complex challenges.
- Aspire to elevate leadership capability to inspire teams and deliver sustainable results.

How it's delivered

Expert Insights
Hear from CEOs and leading specialists who are true experts in their fields.

Industry Networking
Build meaningful connections in a small, curated group of senior leaders.

Strategic Application
Collaborate closely on a Business Strategy Review to apply learning.
Retail Masters Brochure 2026


Programme at a Glance
Navigating Macro Trends in Retail
Explore the forces shaping the future of retail—from global economic shifts to consumer behaviour trends. Understand how senior leaders can anticipate change and position their organisations for long-term success.
Driving Performance Across Retail Functions
Deep dive into the operational pillars of retail success. Examine key areas including customer experience, digital transformation, sustainability, AI integration, and talent strategy.
Understanding Retail’s Broader Impact
Gain insights into how market dynamics, policy, and external pressures influence retail strategy. Learn from guest speakers across sectors to broaden your leadership lens.
Leading Change with Confidence
Build the strategic capabilities needed to lead transformation. Explore themes such as business model innovation, inclusion and culture, government relations, and the future of retail leadership.
Applying Insight to Real-World Strategy
Engage in experiential learning activities focused on a chosen organisation. Develop and refine a strategic business review that reflects your leadership thinking and organisational impact.
Presenting Vision and Impact
Share your strategic review with a panel of experts. Showcase your development, thought leadership, and readiness to shape the future of retail. Conclude with a fireside chat featuring a prominent CEO.
Speakers

Peter Cross
Author of Start with the Customer — a leading expert on customer behavior and trusted consultant.
BRC Support
Programme Designers

Jonathan Reynolds
Deputy Dean & Associate Professor in Retail Marketing | Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
Real Stories, Real Impact


So many people in this industry share the same fears and concerns around not being good enough or lacking confidence in their role. This programme enables you in a safe space to be curious, ask those questions and stretch your own lens. I have discussed topics and areas I would never typically venture and its been invaluable


The programme will push you out of your comfort zone, challenge you with long days, and immerse you in more learning than you’ve likely experienced in four days. But you’ll come out standing taller and stronger than before! Highly recommended—I was initially hesitant about attending, but I ended up grateful to my employer for the investment.
Clear your mind and be open to anything. Be brave and push yourself to be involved and share your own experience. Enjoy everyday and do not be fearful of the project, it is a safe environment with a huge support network.
Pricing & Details
Secure your place in this premium learning experience designed to elevate your expertise and impact.
BRC Members
- £3,395 – invest just £65 a week in knowledge that pays dividends.
- Early-bird offer: £3,195 – save £200 when you book before 31st December 2025. That’s only £61 a week for a future of greater impact.
Non-BRC Members
- £3,695 – just £71 a week for growth that lasts.
- Early-bird offer: £3,495 – save £200 when you book before 31st December 2025.
- Not sure if you’re a member? Get in touch with us and we can advise you on the best path towards retail success.
Why wait? By investing in your expertise today, you accelerate your influence tomorrow. In just a few weeks of focused, collaborative learning, you’ll gain the tools and confidence to lead at the highest level.
Not sure if this pathway is right for you? Explore our alternative learning options or get in touch — we’ll help you choose the best route to success.
FAQ's
Where does the Retail Masters take place?
The programme is delivered in person at The Form Rooms, 22 Tower Street, Covent Garden, London WC2H 9NS, which is the BRC’s headquarters. This venue is chosen to provide an immersive learning environment and easy access for delegates from across the UK retail sector.
What’s the structure of the Retail Masters?
Duration: 4 days, highly interactive and immersive.
Format:
- Industry Insights: Around 15 guest speakers, including CEOs, senior retail leaders, and academics, covering topics such as retail trends, economic outlook, and leadership strategies.
- Debates & Panels: Structured discussions on emerging business challenges.
- Collaborative Projects: Delegates work in small groups on a strategic business review to apply learning to real-world scenarios.
- Networking: Dedicated sessions to build peer connections and share experiences.
Delegate Cap: Maximum of 38 participants to ensure quality engagement and networking.
How do I know the Retail Masters is right for me?
The programme was designed for senior retail leaders who feel they’ve hit a plateau or need to broaden their perspective beyond their own organisation. It’s ideal if you:
- Have big ambitions but feel gaps in strategic knowledge or confidence.
- Spend most of your time in day-to-day operations and want space to think about future trends.
- Lack a strong external network and want to connect with peers and industry experts.
- Want practical frameworks to align commercial, customer, and sustainability goals without guesswork.
The four-day experience gives you tools, insights, and confidence to lead at a higher level, plus networking opportunities that can accelerate your career.
Why are there limited spaces on the Retail Masters?
Spaces are capped (around 38 delegates) to ensure:
- High-quality interaction with speakers and facilitators.
- Collaborative learning in small groups for strategic projects.
- Networking depth, so you build meaningful connections rather than surface-level contacts.
This exclusivity also maintains the premium nature of the programme and guarantees a tailored experience for each participant. We strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.
Reserve a Place
Bookings are now OPEN.
Early-bird discount available till December 2026. Click below to register your interest and receive updates.












