ERA's Tulipane to depart

Barbara Tulipane

Barbara Tulipane, president and CEO of the Electronic Retailing Association (ERA), is leaving her post on July 5 to become the CEO of the National Recreation and Park Association.

Rick Petry, immediate past chairman of the ERA, will be interim CEO while a permanent replacement is found.

Tulipane says many changes have occurred since she joined the ERA in 2000. “The world catching up with our industry,” she said. “They are recognizing what our members have always recognized, which is it's important to meet the consumer on their terms.”

Tulipane was integral in establishing the Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program, which is supported by the FTC. She also established Electronic Retailer magazine.

“I think ERA is well-poised to include retailers even from the traditional brick and mortar stores,” she said. “It recognized that they have to be receptive to what the consumer wants, especially with generational changes. I think you're going to see more of those companies moving into our space.”

As for advice for her successor, she said, “Keep the consumer front and center, remember to laugh, get some good reading glasses because the industry changes so quickly you'll constantly be reading, and get ready for a fast ride.”