ICSC Names Valerie Richardson as Chief Operating Officer

The International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC) announced today that veteran retail and real estate industry executive, Valerie Richardson will join the organization as Chief Operating Officer. Reporting directly to president and CEO, Tom McGee, Richardson will oversee day-to-day administrative and operational functions of ICSC focusing on membership and volunteer engagement and ICSC’s portfolio of programs and services.

Valerie brings expertise from 35 years in retail real estate, working for brands such as Trammell Crow Company, Ann Taylor, Barnes & Noble and most recently, The Container Store, where she has led the real estate team for 20 years. As a long-time ICSC member and volunteer, and with over 15 years as a member of the Board of Trustees of ICSC, Valerie also served as ICSC’s first Chairman from an active retailer and the fifth female Chair for the 2018-2019 term.

“Valerie is an experienced senior leader, well known and respected by our members, with extensive, broad-based industry knowledge,” stated Tom McGee, ICSC president and CEO. “The perspective she brings from the retail side of the business and her expertise in leading multiple retailers through successful expansions and transitions will be critical as we focus on enhancing the value of membership and continuing to elevate our programs and services.”

“For over 60 years, ICSC has delivered tremendous value to the industry and over the past ten months, it has swiftly pivoted to support its members in new and innovative ways in response to the environment created by the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Richardson. “The retail real estate industry is at a pivotal point, and as the premier organization serving it, ICSC must continue to transform. I am honored to have the opportunity to help steer the organization that I have passionately supported for so many years.”

Most recently as Vice President of Real Estate for The Container Store, Richardson was responsible for site evaluation and lease negotiation, as well as store design coordination and construction for The Container Store's nationwide store expansion program. Prior to her role with The Container Store, Valerie was Senior VP – Real Estate and Development for Ann Taylor, Inc., and VP of Real Estate and Development for the Superstore Division of Barnes & Noble, Inc. Richardson began her real estate career at Dallas-based developer, Trammell Crow Company.

About ICSC

ICSC is the preeminent membership organization serving retail and real estate professionals. Our members believe ICSC's unparalleled programs and services are the most efficient and effective way to develop relationships, facilitate transactions, share insights and shape public policy and perception. For more information about ICSC visit www.icsc.org.

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