Carrie Tharp

Carrie Tharp is a prominent figure in the retail and consumer industry, currently serving as the Vice President of Strategic Industries at Google Cloud. With a career spanning e-commerce, digital experiences, and marketing, Tharp has worked with renowned brands such as Neiman Marcus Group, Fossil Group, Travelocity, and Dean Foods.

At Google Cloud, Tharp is responsible for developing and executing the global product, partner, and go-to-market strategy in the retail sector. She works towards helping retail and consumer businesses harness the power of cloud computing, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to drive value and enhance customer experiences. Prior to her role at Google, Tharp held the position of Chief Digital and Marketing Officer at The Neiman Marcus Group, where she played a pivotal role in transforming the company's approach to e-commerce and developing a customer-centric digital strategy.

With a diverse background in technology, operations, and strategy, Tharp has consistently demonstrated her expertise in navigating the evolving retail landscape. She has held senior leadership positions at Fossil Group, Inc., Travelocity, Bain & Company, Dean Foods, and TXU. Tharp holds a bachelor's degree in Management Information Systems from Texas A&M University and an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern.

Beyond her professional achievements, Tharp resides in Dallas, Texas, with her husband and three daughters. In her leisure time, she enjoys engaging in various activities such as travelling, scuba diving, tennis, skiing, and appreciating the arts. Tharp is also known for her insightful talks on topics including AI, analytics, technology, and retail transformation, reflecting her deep knowledge and passion for the industry's future.

Carrie Tharp is a highly accomplished professional in the retail and consumer industry, currently holding the position of Vice President of Strategic Industries at Google Cloud. With a wealth of experience spanning various sectors, Tharp has made significant contributions to renowned organizations throughout her career.

Tharp's journey in the retail industry began with her role as the EVP, Chief Digital & Marketing Officer at The Neiman Marcus Group, where she played a crucial role in revolutionizing the company's e-commerce business and implementing a customer-centric digital strategy. Prior to her tenure at The Neiman Marcus Group, Tharp served as the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer, and Head of e-commerce at Fossil Group, Inc., overseeing global e-commerce operations for the company's portfolio of brands.

Her expertise extends to other notable companies, including Travelocity, Dean Foods, and Bain & Company, where she held various senior positions and made significant contributions to strategy, customer insights, and innovation. Tharp's breadth of experience has equipped her with a deep understanding of the evolving retail landscape and the ability to navigate complex challenges.

Tharp holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree with a focus on Management & Strategy, Marketing, and IT Industry Management from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. She also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree in Management Information Systems from Texas A&M University.

Beyond her professional achievements, Tharp is actively involved in several organizations, serving on the boards of Rue Gilt Groupe and Vera Bradley. She is also an Advisory Board Member of ActionIQ and a former Member of the Board of Trustees at the Dallas Museum of Art. Tharp's expertise and insights are sought after, and she is known for her talks on topics such as AI, analytics, technology, and retail transformation.

Carrie Tharp's remarkable career and dedication to the retail and consumer industry have solidified her position as a respected leader and innovator in the field. Her passion for driving transformation, leveraging technology, and delivering exceptional customer experiences continues to shape the industry's future.

Carrie Tharp's vision is deeply rooted in leveraging technology and innovation to drive transformative change in the retail and consumer industry. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a clear understanding of the power of data, analytics, and emerging technologies in shaping the future of retail.

Tharp envisions a future where retailers and consumer businesses can harness the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and cloud computing to unlock new levels of operational efficiency, customer engagement, and sustainable growth. She believes that by embracing these technologies, businesses can optimize their processes, personalize customer experiences, and stay ahead of evolving market trends.

With her role at Google Cloud, Tharp aims to empower retail and consumer businesses by providing them with the tools, strategies, and insights needed to unlock the full potential of the cloud, AI, and ML. She believes that by harnessing these capabilities, companies can better understand their customers, make data-driven decisions, and create innovative solutions that meet the ever-changing demands of the industry.

Tharp also emphasizes the importance of creating seamless and personalized customer experiences. She believes that by leveraging technology, retailers can build deeper connections with their customers, anticipate their needs, and deliver tailored offerings that enhance loyalty and satisfaction. Tharp's vision revolves around placing the customer at the centre of every retail experience, ensuring that their needs and preferences are met with efficiency, convenience, and personalization.

Furthermore, Tharp recognizes the significance of sustainability and responsible business practices in the retail industry. She envisions a future where retailers prioritize environmentally friendly practices, reduce waste, and promote social responsibility. By leveraging technology and innovative approaches, Tharp believes that businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future while still driving growth and profitability.