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PARIS <\/strong>\u2014 The International Association of Department Stores has appointed Robert Rooderkerk as its first academic adviser, the organization announced Monday.<\/p>\n The new position is aimed at strengthening the organization\u2019s research-driven insight across the global department store sector, as well as deepen engagement with academia and enhance access to cutting-edge analytics, retail research and management frameworks.<\/p>\n More from WWD<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cRooderkerk brings considerable expertise at the intersection of marketing and operations, with a particular specialization in omnichannel retailing and sector analysis. This appointment enhances\u00a0IADS\u2019 ability to provide its members with solution-oriented perspectives,\u201d the organization said in a statement. The appointment was made \u201cwith the aim of strengthening its intellectual leadership, facilitating access to research and contributing to its strategic direction. The objective is to make\u00a0IADS\u00a0an ever more relevant resource in the service of department store<\/a> leaders.\u201d<\/p>\n In his advisory role, Rooderkerk will focus on three pillars, including improving knowledge transfer across IADS members, translating external research into accessible insights and strengthening the industry\u2019s collective voice. His work will contribute to the IADS Academy program, white papers and case studies, and support tailored member events. The initiative complements existing partnerships with industry networks and retail<\/a> technology providers as department stores accelerate transformation toward data-driven, experience-led models.<\/p>\n Rooderkerk hails from the Rotterdam School of Management, and brings expertise at the intersection of marketing and operations, with a focus on omnichannel retail, retail analytics and decision-driven management.<\/p>\n His research spans experience-led store formats, online fulfilment failures, sustainable assortment planning and dynamic store staffing.<\/p>\n Nicolas Houz\u00e9, chair of the Galeries Lafayette Group\u2019s executive board, currently serves as president of the organization. Francisco Irarr\u00e1zaval, managing director of Falabella Retail, serves as vice president of the international organization.<\/p>\n The association represents leading department stores worldwide, including operators navigating rapid shifts in omnichannel retail, AI adoption and evolving consumer expectations.<\/p>\n IADS members including Beijing Hulian Group, Bloomingdale\u2019s, Chalhoub Group, El Corte Ingles, Galeries Lafayette<\/a>, John Lewis and The Mall Group, among others.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n