I'm Solomon F. Bennett II, a strategic executive specializing in consumer insights, personalization, and enterprise analytics. Over 15+ years I’ve helped Fortune 100 retailers and global hospitality brands transform the guest experience and drive growth through evidence-based decision-making. I build and lead cross-functional teams, map the customer journey, and translate data into clear, actionable strategies that influence brand positioning and business results. Recognized by Forbes and ARF Ogilvy Gold, I’m passionate about inclusive leadership and turning complex data into compelling stories that empower teams and customers.

Solomon F. Bennett II

I'm Solomon F. Bennett II, a strategic executive specializing in consumer insights, personalization, and enterprise analytics. Over 15+ years I’ve helped Fortune 100 retailers and global hospitality brands transform the guest experience and drive growth through evidence-based decision-making. I build and lead cross-functional teams, map the customer journey, and translate data into clear, actionable strategies that influence brand positioning and business results. Recognized by Forbes and ARF Ogilvy Gold, I’m passionate about inclusive leadership and turning complex data into compelling stories that empower teams and customers.

Available to hire

I’m Solomon F. Bennett II, a strategic executive specializing in consumer insights, personalization, and enterprise analytics. Over 15+ years I’ve helped Fortune 100 retailers and global hospitality brands transform the guest experience and drive growth through evidence-based decision-making.

I build and lead cross-functional teams, map the customer journey, and translate data into clear, actionable strategies that influence brand positioning and business results. Recognized by Forbes and ARF Ogilvy Gold, I’m passionate about inclusive leadership and turning complex data into compelling stories that empower teams and customers.

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Work Experience

Director, Enterprise Insights at Target Corporation
January 1, 2025 - Present
Created an enterprise-wide consumer journey framework aligning strategy, investment, and guest experience. Integrated behavioral science and retail trend analysis to shape Target's brand experience vision and partnered with executives to prioritize innovation opportunities and drive enterprise adoption of insights.
Senior Director, Guest Insights & Employment Marketing at Vail Resorts
January 1, 2021 - January 1, 2024
Rebuilt the Guest Insights & Experience function, leading a 10-person team and delivering year-over-year sales growth. Implemented AI-driven testing frameworks and enterprise KPIs to enhance guest experience; developed Employment Brand strategy, positioning Vail as an employer of choice and improving retention.
Director, Shopping Insights at Target Corporation
January 1, 2019 - January 1, 2021
Established seasonal insights strategy by integrating primary/secondary research for enterprise alignment. Introduced neuroscience and behavioral methods to capture non-conscious shopper behaviors; delivered insights shaping Low Prices Everyday campaigns and price perception.
Director, Personalization, Insights & Experiences at Chico's FAS
January 1, 2018 - January 1, 2019
Defined enterprise personalization insights and experiences; led initiatives to enhance personalization and experiences for shoppers across channels.
Senior Acquisition Manager at Sam's Club
January 1, 2017 - January 1, 2018
Designed new membership acquisition programs and messaging strategies; increased membership YOY by 40% via direct mail and multi-channel campaigns.
Director, Research – Global People Analytics at Walmart
January 1, 2015 - January 1, 2017
Directed a 13-member team running an annual employee survey for 2.4 million associates across 26 markets. Pioneered a Data Artist approach to enhance insights, storytelling and visualization, and advanced the adoption of People Analytics across global HR leadership.
Marketing Manager, Brand Strategy at Walmart US Marketing
January 1, 2012 - January 1, 2013
Established brand strategy for enterprise alignment and led seasonal campaign initiatives; contributed to real estate and market positioning strategies.
Sr. Research Manager – Grocery / Health & Wellness / Private Label at Walmart US Marketing – Insights
January 1, 2010 - January 1, 2012
Defined consumer insights across Groceries, Health & Wellness, and Private Label; delivered actionable insights to multiple markets and supported private label launches.
Senior Research Manager – Communications / Multicultural at Walmart US Marketing – Insights
January 1, 2007 - January 1, 2010
Built multicultural insights function to target Hispanic, Asian, and African-American shoppers; delivered insights shaping communications and multicultural marketing strategies.

Education

Master of Science in Advertising at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2001
Bachelor of Science in Advertising Research at University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
January 11, 2030 - January 1, 2000

Qualifications

ARF Ogilvy Gold Award – Multicultural Category
January 1, 2010 - December 11, 2025
Forbes Contributor
January 1, 2010 - December 11, 2025
Founder, Vail Resorts Black Employee Network
January 1, 2023 - December 11, 2025

Industry Experience

Retail, Consumer Goods, Professional Services, Media & Entertainment