Focus on AI and personalisation as Naveen Seshadri becomes Global Chief Digital Officer at Ralph Lauren

Naveen Seshadri has taken on an expanded role as Chief Digital Officer at Ralph Lauren, having joined the company last year as Global Head of Consumer Technology & Digital Commerce.

Seshadri’s CV also includes stints as an advisory board member at Salesforce, and EVP, Global Retail - Consumer Products, Games & Publishing at The Walt Disney Company.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: “My first year at the company has been nothing short of incredible. Ralph Lauren is one of the most iconic brands in the world - rooted in timeless style and authentic, enduring purpose - and I’m honoured to help lead its next chapter of digital growth and transformation.”

“In this role, I’ll be focused on shaping a truly connected digital ecosystem that enhances how we inspire consumers, empower our retail teams around to world, and elevate the brand across every consumer touchpoint - from digital commerce and in-store technology, to global consumer experience and innovation. With a sharp focus on personalisation, AI, platform modernisation, and cross-channel commercial growth, we’re building for the future with both magic and logic.”

He added: “As I kick off the next leg of this journey, I am reminded of Ralph's words - "Love what you do, be passionate, work hard, embrace individuality, work together, take risks, stand up for what you believe in and aspire to the best".

RTIH AI in Retail Awards

RTIH, organiser of the industry leading RTIH Innovation Awards, proudly brings you the first edition of the RTIH AI in Retail Awards, which is now open for entries. 

As we witness a digital transformation revolution across all channels, AI tools are reshaping the omnichannel game, from personalising customer experiences to optimising inventory, uncovering insights into consumer behaviour, and enhancing the human element of retailers' businesses.

With 2025 set to be the year when AI and especially gen AI shake off the ‘heavily hyped’ tag and become embedded in retail business processes, our newly launched awards celebrate global technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world and the resulting benefits for retailers, shoppers and employees.

Our 2025 winners will be those companies who not only recognise the potential of AI, but also make it usable in everyday work - resulting in more efficiency and innovation in all areas.

Winners will be announced at an evening event at The Barbican in Central London on Wednesday, 3rd September.

This will kick off with a drinks reception in the stunning Conservatory, followed by a three course meal, and awards ceremony in the Garden Room.

Please email our Editor, Scott Thompson, if you have any questions or need further information: scott.thompson@retailtechinnovationhub.com

Key 2025 dates

Friday, 18th July: Award entry deadline 

Tuesday, 22nd July: 2025 finalists revealed

Wednesday, 23rd July - Friday, 8th August: Judging days

Wednesday, 3rd September: Winners announced at the 2025 RTIH AI in Retail Awards Ceremony, to be held at The Barbican in Central London.