RILA Announces Kelly Kolb as Vice President of Global Supply Chain Policy

Arlington, VA – The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) announced today that Kelly Kolb has joined the association as vice president of global supply chain policy. Kolb will represent the RILA’s members before Congress and the Executive Branch on supply chain and transportation issues.

Kolb was most recently the acting assistant secretary for government affairs at the U.S. Department of Transportation, a position she held after serving as the deputy assistant secretary within the same office. In this position, Kolb served as the secretary’s primary advisor for all intergovernmental matters and was responsible for developing and advancing the department’s governmental affairs strategy. Before joining the Department of Transportation in 2005, Kolb served as a Senate staffer, most recently for Senator George Allen (R-VA).

“Kelly brings a strong background in both transportation policy and advocacy and is a great addition to our organization and an asset to the retail industry,” said RILA President Sandy Kennedy.

Kolb will manage RILA’s supply chain committees and advocacy which includes supply chain security, transportation infrastructure, modal efficiency, and customs and border issues.

“Kelly is a proven leader and strong advocate for the critical issues that impact the movement of goods,” said John Emling, senior vice president, government affairs. “Her experience and insight will help advance the cause of the retail industry on these critical issues.”

Kolb officially joined RILA on March 19 and will report directly to John Emling.

The Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) promotes consumer choice and economic freedom through public policy and industry operational excellence. Its members include retailers, product manufacturers, and service suppliers--which together provide millions of jobs and operate more than 100,000 stores, manufacturing facilities and distribution centers domestically and abroad.