Nov 29, 2022

Dallas Market Center names COO

Retail and digital veteran Karen Ryder joined Dallas Market Center as COO.

Ryder, who has been consulting for the company for several months, is responsible for overseeing marketing, retail development, market services, IT and digital. She brings experience in retail, brand development and technology to her new role. She reports to President and CEO Cindy Morris.

“This is a pivotal moment for the future of our company,” Morris said. “As we evolve to meet the changing demands of our customers, Karen’s background in technology, brand development and growth strategies will be invaluable. She’s a proven leader who has demonstrated the ability to advance corporate goals while also serving customers and developing talented leaders. Our continuing focus on growing buyers and brands, supported by technology, will benefit from her knowledge and expertise.”

The marketplace has recently debuted more than 50 new or expanding showrooms, held market events that are larger than in previous years and welcomed a record number of new buyers from around the world, with the largest growth coming from the Southeast, Upper Midwest and western U.S, according to Dallas Market Center.

“I’m pleased to join a company motivated to create new pathways to growth supported by a strong family legacy and marketplace momentum,” said Ryder. “I’m also looking forward to advancing our mission of inspiration and commerce in innovative ways. This business is driven by great products and people with a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit, so I view the opportunity to work together with such important stakeholders as the chance of a lifetime.”

Ryder joins an executive team with decades of experience, says Dallas Market Center, including Morris; Joan Ulrich, EVP of leasing for gift, home and lighting; Eva Walsh, SVP of leasing for apparel, accessories and footwear; Cherie Marcus, EVP of finance; Mitzi Tally, EVP of lease administration; and Jeff Bachman, EVP of technology and facility services.

She also joins recent arrivals Dave Savula, business development strategist, and Jo Ann Miller Marshall, SVP temp leasing for Home & Gift.

Ryder brings to the position a background that includes brick and mortar retail and digital. She previously served in positions including VP of growth for Michaels, global head of brand & retail at RewardStyle (now LTK), and director of global innovation and corporate strategy at the Estee Lauder Companies.