Background

Vincent Dell'Osa joined the Department of Retailing in fall 2024 as an executive in residence, bringing with him a profound commitment to mentorship and over 40 years of experience in the retail industry. Over the past 20 years, he held executive roles at Ralph Lauren, culminating as President of Ralph Lauren Retail, North America. In this capacity, he successfully navigated multiple business cycles, expanded operating profits and drove innovation across a diverse range of retail environments.

Dell'Osa's career is marked by his passion for continuous learning and transformation. His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that true leadership goes beyond titles and positions — it's about making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. He consistently blends strategic vision with hands-on operational expertise, having led 13 departments and gained mastery in all areas of the retail sector. His experience spans eight distinct channels, including luxury, factory and digital, giving him a comprehensive understanding of the retail landscape, with a global perspective from North America to Canada and beyond.

As an executive in residence, Dell'Osa is dedicated to sharing his insights with students and faculty, emphasizing adaptability, innovation and the courage to embrace change. His "Unlearn to Learn" philosophy fosters continuous self-improvement and flexibility, preparing future leaders to excel in an ever-evolving industry. A strong advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion, Dell'Osa has championed these values throughout his career by sponsoring DE&I initiatives and mentoring the next generation of leaders.

Dell'Osa’s leadership was tested through nine major business shifts, which he navigated with resilience and strategic foresight. His ability to identify challenges before they surfaced and to develop proactive strategies helped him steer organizations through turbulent times. He has also championed the use of technology to bridge employee and customer experiences, harnessing its potential to drive growth. 

Currently, Dell'Osa serves on several boards, including as chairperson of the Retail Executive Advisory Board at the University of South Carolina, vice chair of the Board of Directors for Delivering Good, Better Business Bureau, and as a board member at Gen AI Embed and the National High School Basketball Association. His extensive board experience enhances his ability to provide strategic guidance and drive innovation within the academic community. His commitment to governance and leadership excellence is further underscored by his certification from the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD).

In addition to his board work, Dell'Osa consults with retail and technology companies, applying his wealth of experience to help organizations navigate the rapidly changing business landscape. His greatest strength lies in his ability to anticipate changes and translate them into actionable business models — turning ideas into impactful strategies that fuel growth.

Dell'Osa is also deeply involved in nonprofit work, dedicating his time and expertise to initiatives that bring about positive change in communities.

Dell'Osa’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance and purpose. In his role as executive in residence, he brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to shaping the future of retail through education. His story is one of ongoing evolution, and he is eager to inspire others to pursue their passions, embrace challenges and lead with integrity. The future of retail lies not just in the hands of today's leaders but in the potential of those who will lead tomorrow. Dell'Osa is dedicated to ensuring that this potential is fully realized.