Clare Bailey, widely known as The Retail Champion, is a highly respected authority in the retail and sales sectors. With a career spanning over three decades, she has worked at the highest levels of corporate leadership, consultancy, media commentary and legal expert witness work. As a Director of the Institute of Sales Professionals (ISP), Clare brings her extensive expertise in sales strategy, consumer behaviour and business transformation to support the organisation’s mission of driving excellence in the profession.
Clare’s career began in corporate retail, where she held senior roles at M&S, Dixons (now Currys) and Argos, leading strategic initiatives in highly competitive markets. Her deep understanding of consumer behaviour and sales dynamics has made her a sought-after consultant for global brands, including Amazon, Accenture and SumUp. Through her consultancy, Clare has helped businesses navigate complex sales landscapes, optimise customer engagement and drive sustainable growth.
As a best-selling author, Clare has written The Retail Champion: 10 Steps to Retail Success and How to Sell to Retail, both regarded as essential reading for sales and retail professionals. Her expertise has also led to many high-profile media appearances on the BBC, Sky News, Ch5 and Netflix documentaries, where she provides authoritative insights on sales trends, consumer shifts and market innovation.
Clare’s appointment to the Board of the Institute of Sales Professionals reflects her commitment to shaping the future of the sales industry. She is passionate about professional development, advocating for ethical sales practices and equipping businesses with the skills needed to thrive in an evolving marketplace.