Cara Hardy | eTail Boston

Cara Hardy

Vice President, eCommerce & Digital Marketing The Paper Store

As Head of Marketing at The Paper Store, Cara Hardy leads the development and execution of innovative strategies that drive omnichannel brand growth, customer acquisition, and in-store engagement. With over 15 years of experience, she's known for building and uniting teams, fostering collaboration, streamlining processes, and deliver measurable results. Her diverse background spans ecommerce, merchandising, marketing, creative, P&L management, and digital strategy—giving her a unique ability to translate a brand’s DNA into high-impact digital experiences that drives engagement, loyalty, and revenue. Prior to joining The Paper Store, Cara held leadership roles at Wolverine Worldwide and New Balance, where she successfully scaled multi-channel marketing programs, launched new product lines, and built high-performing teams. Passionate about brand storytelling and consumer connection, Cara is focused on creating meaningful brand experiences in an ever-evolving retail landscape.

Main Day One: Tuesday, August 12

4:15 PM Track B: Panel Discussion: Whenever You Need Me, I’ll Be There: Meeting Your Customer Exactly Where They Want You To Be

Meeting audiences where they are—whether through digital channels, in-person interactions, or hybrid touchpoints—is essential for building trust and loyalty. This panel will explore strategies for delivering seamless, omnichannel support that adapts to evolving customer preferences, from leveraging AI-driven tools for real-time responsiveness to fostering empathetic, human connections that transcend transactional relationships. Attendees will gain insights into balancing automation with authenticity, ensuring every interaction feels personalized and purposeful, no matter the platform or context. Panelists will cover: 

  • Acknowledging customers don’t care which channel they use, as long as their experience is quick, easy & convenient
  • Making strides to better connect the digital and the physical retail environment to so you can offer more flexible and frictionless experiences
  • Thinking strategically about the entire journey and eliminating customer pain points
  • Creating strong alignment across all business units as well as constant iteration to take into account changing customer needs

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

Download The Latest Agenda