NCA’s Women’s Leadership Group is coming to Chicago!
We’re bringing together confectionery professionals from across the area for a relaxed, after-work event designed to foster meaningful connections and spark great conversation. Whether you’re new to the industry, a seasoned pro, or somewhere in between, this is a welcoming space to grow your network and recharge with peers.
Come as you are! Bring a Friend – All members of the confectionery industry are invited to attend. WLG is all about community, support, and authentic connection.
The Details:
📅 Date:
Thursday, September 24, 2026
🕓 Time:
4 – 5:30 p.m.
📍 Location:
CA Fortune
651 W Washington Blvd, Suite 600
Chicago, IL 60661
Sponsored by:
Meet Our Speaker
Rachael Vegas
Chief Commercial Officer Merchandising, Marketing and Digital
Rachael leads efforts to revitalize the front-of-store experience, strengthen digital engagement and loyalty, and create greater connectivity between pharmacy patients and retail customers.
Prior to joining Walgreens, Rachael served as Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant at BJ’s Wholesale Club, where she transformed the merchandising organization and delivered more than $100 million in annual profitability improvements. Her career also includes leadership roles at H-E-B, Target, Brandless, and Hannaford Bros. Co., giving her deep experience across merchandising, digital, sourcing, retail media, and operations.
Persons who require reasonable accommodation or alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, language translation or interpretation. etc.) should contact events@CandyUSA.com at least one week prior to the meeting.
