HR Retail 2025

April 15 - 17, 2025

JW Marriott LA LIVE, CA

Jennifer Velez

Head of DEI, Communications & Culture Forever 21

Jennifer Velez (she/her) currently leads DEI, Comms and Culture at Forever 21. She is a globally minded leader, social researcher, and strategist with 15+ years of experience at the intersection of data, human behavior, and brand storytelling. A seasoned international traveler who has lived in six countries, she brings a culturally intelligent lens to communications strategy, brand activations, and digital marketing. As a neurodivergent thinker, she excels in creative problem-solving, systems design, and crafting data-driven narratives that drive engagement and foster inclusion. Her expertise spans strategic communications, experiential marketing, and cross-sector partnerships, with a proven track record of boosting engagement by 75%+ through audience-centric campaigns. A dynamic speaker and collaborator, she has designed high-impact brand activations, DEI initiatives, and large-scale events that prioritize psychological safety while strengthening community ties. Whether developing internal comms frameworks, leading digital marketing teams, or forging mission-driven partnerships, she transforms complexity into clarity—empowering organizations to connect authentically with their audiences. The results of her work show how data, storytelling, and inclusive strategy can elevate brands, amplify impact, and inspire action.

Day 1: Building the Retail Workforce of the Future

10:30 AM Fireside Chat: The Role of DEI in Today's Retail Environment

• Culture building across the organization, from the top to the salesfloor

• The business value for DEI in the current talent landscape

• What is HR and leadership’s role in DEI work?

• Enhancing employee engagement and alignment with company values


Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Jennifer.

Download The Latest Agenda