The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) is pleased to announce Erin Hiatt has been promoted to vice president, corporate social responsibility (CSR). This is a new role for the association reflecting the retail industry’s accelerated commitment to corporate governance and sustainability issues.
Hiatt joined RILA in 2012 and has served in several roles, most recently as senior director for sustainability and innovation. In this new role, Hiatt will lead RILA’s broader CSR issue portfolio, which includes offerings and the member communities focused on sustainability, responsible sourcing, energy management, diversity & inclusion, and supporting members’ environmental, social, and governance (ESG) engagement practices.
“Erin’s expertise on corporate and social responsibility issues and her dedication to the retail industry is extraordinary,” said Lisa LaBruno, RILA senior executive vice president, retail operations. “Leading retailers understand that as corporate citizens they have tremendous influence over issues that matter to their employees, customers, and shareholders. RILA plays a critical role in helping retailers navigate through new CSR expectations and commitments, and Erin will do a superb job as their advocate and leader.”
Hiatt was recently selected to join the Sustainable Accounting Standards Board’s (SASB) Standards Advisory Group for consumer goods and currently is the only retail trade association represented. Hiatt’s participation on SASB’s advisory board will add unparalleled value to RILA’s CSR program.
“I’m proud to support leading retailers’ work accelerating corporate social responsibility goals and commitments,” said Hiatt. “Over a decade ago RILA’s board challenged the association to focus on sustainability issues and opportunities. This work has been incredibly rewarding as we leverage the positive impact leading retailers can have on their communities and the world. As we broaden our focus to examine other critical environmental, social, and governance priorities, I am eager to collaborate with our members to see what we can accomplish.”
