Erin Wendte | eTail Palm Springs

Erin Wendte

Erin Wendte

EVP, North American Consumer Teams Zumiez
Erin Wendte
Erin is the leader of Zumiez North America, where she oversees all revenue-generating departments, including product, marketing, physical retail, and digital retail. Since joining the company in 2008, Erin has held progressive leadership roles that have helped shape Zumiez into one of the most recognizable specialty retailers for youth culture. In addition to her current role, she has previously overseen real estate, human resources, and IT, giving her a uniquely comprehensive perspective on the operational, cultural, and strategic levers of a global retail business. Erin has built a career focused on helping organizations succeed in highly competitive markets. She is recognized as a thought leader in youth culture and consumer behavior, particularly among Gen Z and the emerging Gen Alpha, where her insights on individuality, community, and cultural influence have guided strategic growth and innovation. She has led teams responsible for $1 billion in revenue and is skilled at navigating both rapid expansion and industry-wide disruption. Erin graduated Magna Cum Laude from Seattle University School of Law and earned her B.A. from the University of Puget Sound. She lives between Seattle and Leavenworth, WA, and is an avid hiker and world traveler. In 2025, she checked two major trips off her bucket list: hiking the Lycian Way in Turkey and the Inca Trail in Peru.

Wednesday, February 25

9:35 AM Main Stage: Keynote Panel: From Likes to Loyalty: Proven Strategies to Spark Brand Love and Turn Customers into Lifelong Advocates

Creating brand love goes far beyond clicks and likes—it’s about forging powerful emotional connections that inspire customers to become devoted lifelong advocates. Studies show that emotionally connected customers are twice as valuable as highly satisfied ones, driving more repeat purchases and brand referrals but turning casual buyers into loyal fans demands authentic engagement, memorable experiences, and unwavering trust.

During this panel, marketing leaders unveil proven strategies to spark deep brand affection, cultivate enduring relationships, and transform customers into passionate champions who accelerate growth and amplify your brand’s story across the globe by:

  • Creating personalized customer experiences that foster emotional connections
  • Designing and implement loyalty programs and exclusive offers
  • Building a vibrant brand community and leverage customer stories
  • Transforming social media engagement and customer feedback into long-term brand advocacy

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Erin.

Download The Latest Agenda