Rite Aid adds Harlam to board
Rite Aid is growing its board of directors with the appointment of Bari Harlam. Harlam brings to the board experience in marketing and consumer understanding, having served most recently as chief marketing officer of Hudson’s Bay.
Rite Aid said that Harlam’s career has seen her distinguish herself as a marketing pioneer who knows how to attract customers through data-driven consumer insights and omnichannel strategies. At Hudson’s Bay, she led an overhaul of its marketing and omnichannel efforts. Harlam also brings experience in the retail pharmacy industry to the board, having spent time at CVS Health as senior vice president, building and launching CVS Pharmacy’s ExtraCare program. At Rite Aid, she will use this expertise to advance the Camp Hill, Pa.-based retailer’s focus on delivering a future-oriented omnichannel experience.
“A critical ingredient in Rite Aid's RxEvolution is building meaningful connections with our new target customer, both in-store and online,” said Bruce Bodaken, Rite Aid chairman of the board. “Bari brings to the board of directors expertise that will help us evaluate and provide feedback to the management team on the company's efforts to assure a customer-centric philosophy and commitment across the organization. She is a proven and inspired leader with whom I look forward to working alongside as we build a new Rite Aid that helps our customers and communities thrive.”
In addition to her time at Hudson’s Bay and CVS Health, Harlam has worked with Swipely and BJ’s Wholesale Club. She also is familiar with board work, currently serving on the boards of OneWater Marine, Eastern Bank, Mohawk Group and Champion Petfoods.
“This is both a critical time in the healthcare industry and a time of ongoing change in the retail sector, as consumer needs and expectations evolve,” Harlam said. “I am energized by the opportunity ahead of us to continue keeping the communities we serve healthy while realizing Rite Aid's vision for the future in today's rapidly changing retail landscape.”