Canadian Tire Corporation veteran Milena Kumurdjieva exits after almost 19 year run

Milena Kumurdjieva has announced her departure from Canadian Tire Corporation after spending almost 19 years at the retailer, holding a number of roles during that time, most recently Associate VP, Applied AI and Automation.

In a LinkedIn post, in which she did not reveal her next move, she said: "As 2025 comes to a close, I’m also closing a very meaningful chapter of my career. After 18 years at Canadian Tire Corporation, it feels like the right moment to pause and reflect with gratitude."

"Across eight different roles, I had the opportunity to grow, take on new challenges, and contribute through many periods of change. I worked with exceptional people, helped build capabilities and communities I’m deeply proud of, and was fortunate to be part of work that had real impact."

"This journey shaped me in ways that go far beyond titles or projects. For the mentors, colleagues, and partners who trusted me, challenged me, and supported me along the way - THANK YOU! As I look ahead, I’m grateful for everything this chapter has given me and optimistic about what’s next. I’m looking forward to continuing to build, contribute, and learn in new ways."

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

AI an automation will be key focus areas at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards will open for entries in April. They celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Thursday, 15th October.

Check out our 2025 winners here.

Our 2025 hall of fame entrants were revealed during a sold out event which took place at The HAC in Central London on 16th October and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by award winning comedian, actress and writer Tiff Stevenson.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “This is the awards’ fifth year as a physical event. We started off with just 30 people at the South Place Hotel not far from here, then moved to London Bridge Hotel, then The Barbican, and last year RIBA’s HQ in the West End.”

“But I’m conscious of the fact that, to quote the legend that is Taylor Swift, You’re only as hot as your last hit, baby. So, this year we’ve moved to our biggest venue yet, and also pulled in our largest number of entries to date and broken attendance records.”

He added: “This year’s submissions have without doubt been our best yet. To quote one of the judges: The examples of innovative developments across both traditional and digital retail spaces were truly remarkable.”

Congratulations to our winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Tiff Stevenson, and all those who attended our 2025 gathering.