Garry Thaniel is a 15-year business executive whose experiences in the retail sector and management consulting provide him with expertise in balancing strategic planning and tactical execution. Most recently, Garry served as CEO of ONA Designs International, LLC, a purveyor of fine bags and accessories for the photography, creative professional and travel marketplace.
Garry’s background in the retail sector began with Lord & Taylor where he helped launch several new brands, including Lilly Pulitzer, Eileen Fisher, Tommy Bahama and more. He also led the planning for the Premium Denim business, were he grew its offering from eight to thirty-three stores, and helped launch brands such as Hudson, Diesel, Citizens of Humanity, Seven. In 2007, Garry resigned from Lord & Taylor to attend Harvard Business School where he graduated in 2009 with a Master of Business Administration.
Before taking on the role at ONA, Garry held several leadership roles with Sears Holding Corporation, The Grayson Group, AT Kearney, and Macys. Throughout his career, Garry developed a comprehensive skill set that includes retail and product development. His experiences in the retail sector and management consulting provide him with the unique ability to balance strategic planning and tactical execution.
Garry is very active in the community, volunteering with America Needs You, the Black Retail Action Group (BRAG), and his church. He is currently a member of the Harvard Business School Alumni Board of Directors, and former Board member of the Bucknell University Alumni Association and the Black Retail Action Group.
Garry has been featured in Black Enterprise, Uptown Magazine, Yahoo Finance, and more.