Jack Kleinhenz, the National Retail Federation’s chief economist since 2010, is stepping down to serve in a new capacity as senior economic adviser.
Taking the reins as chief economist is Mark Mathews, the retail trade organization’s executive director of research. Mathews brings to the role more than 30 years of experience working in research, finance and economics in a variety of positions in the U.S. and the U.K.
Most recently, Mathews headed the Market Intelligence Group at the World Gold Council where he served as a member of the organization’s leadership team. Prior to that, he spent seven years at the $1.4 billion AUM private equity firm based in London, where he worked on dozens of deals in the retail sector including acquisitions in the food services, entertainment, consumer goods and e-commerce sectors. Earlier in his career, Mathews worked for NASDAQ as managing director of research and head of strategic planning for international operations.
As chief economist, Kleinhenz was instrumental in providing insights into retail industry growth, consumer spending patterns and broader economic factors, helping forecast and guide companies through economic challenges and opportunities. Kleinhenz, who has been very visible in the media, will continue to offer his perspective on key economic topics while maintaining close working relationships with U.S. statistical agencies, the Federal Reserve and economics organizations.
“Jack Kleinhenz is an influential figure in the retail industry who has offered expert analysis and forecasts on national economic trends,” said NRF president and chief executive officer Matthew Shay in a statement. “I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Jack and learning from him during my time at NRF. He has been an invaluable expert and trusted adviser to NRF and our members. Jack’s continued involvement, along with Mark Mathews’ leadership, will ensure that NRF stays at the forefront of economic issues impacting the retail sector.”
“I am proud of all we have accomplished at NRF over the past 15 years,” Kleinhenz said in a statement. “It has been an honor to work alongside such a talented and dedicated team. I look forward to continuing my work with NRF in a new capacity, supporting the association and its members as they navigate an ever-changing economic landscape.”