Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Luci Shanahan joined the White House Historical Association in 2023 to lead transformative growth initiatives for their retail business. Though a native of Chicago, she first became passionate about Presidential history when her sister served with the Old Guard, 3rd US Infantry - the United States Army's official ceremonial unit and escort to the president. With more than 25 years of experience in retail, Luci has built a career defined by progressive leadership across brand strategy, product development, and merchandising. She began her career with iconic brands such as Abercrombie & Fitch and Juicy Couture, where she led product development and launch initiatives during periods of significant brand growth. As her career advanced, she became known for driving brand reinvention and growth at scale. These accomplishments propelled her into merchandising leadership roles, where she expanded her scope to include end-to-end retail strategy and execution. As the Chief Retail Officer for the White House Historical Association, Luci leads all product development, sourcing, and retail operations. In this role, she is responsible for stewarding the retail arm of a mission-driven brand, creating compelling retail experiences that both engage customers and support funding civic education initiatives tied to the history of the White House. She holds an undergraduate degree from The George Washington University, and a professional degree from The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles.
The White House Historical Association is a private, nonprofit organization founded in 1961 by First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy with a mission to protect, preserve, and provide public access to the rich history of America’s Executive Mansion. In my role as Chief Retail Officer, I am focused on providing vision and leadership to drive innovation and growth to all aspects of retail product and operations. From product development to new store launches, I am so grateful for our best in class team that furthers our mission every day through thoughtful customer interactions that help educate and inspire everyone they meet.
Responsible for developing the long-term merchandise vision for key categories of business. Demonstrated entrepreneurial mix of visionary strategy development, exceptional financial business acumen, strong understanding of merchandising, and the ability to lead a team fostering resilience and fortitude. Recognized for my outstanding ability to build and nurture strong relationships with the vendor community. Accountable for P&L, cost turn, customer satisfaction and digital experience. 4 years of experience as DMM over Intimate Apparel 4 years of experience as DMM of Fashion Accessories, Jewelry, Designer and Fashion Handbags
• P&L management and category ownership over apparel, outerwear, accessories, uniform, sleepwear, and more • Digital lead on "juniors growth committee" charged with identifying key areas to focus digital growth, advising other buyers in the division on web choice expansion, and working with digital merchant to identify key improvements in navigation, search, and overall web experience for the area.
• Architected 2+ year brand growth strategies for two of the largest youth private brands - achieved these objectives showing consistent YOY profitability growth over a 3 year span. • Leveraged NPD data to drive overhaul of denim business across private brand Juniors/YM/Boys businesses: drove innovation to meet customer needs from facilitating partnership with Lycra® to adding reinforced knee features (kids). Result: increased AUR by 20% unit with improved quality/performance/aesthetic/profitability • Partnered with legal team to devise and execute licensing agreements with Disney for capsule DTR collections for Cinderella movie, Captain America, and Minnie Mouse anniversary capsule. Worked with art, design, and overseas production teams to execute truly unique and innovative lines that performed exceptionally well in stores. • Product Development Lead on Special Project Incubator for CEO, Michelle Gass - selected as sole member of product/design team to work directly with the executive team on business strategies to inform new business acquisitions for Kohl’s.
• Drove consensus across global merchant organization on final assortment committed for season. • Provided sell-in guidance to wholesale team for domestic partners. • Line architect and merchant over denim, knits, dresses.