R. SCOTT SHALLEY

PRESIDENT & CEO, FLORIDA RETAIL FEDERATION, TALLAHASSEE

For nearly 90 years, the Florida Retail Federation has served as the only statewide professional organization dedicated to the advancement and support of Florida’s retailers. FRF represents retailers of all sizes from small independent businesses to the world’s largest brands. Shalley has been president and CEO for more than eight years, during which time he has advocated for tax reductions and reforms, fought organized retail crime and more.

EDUCATION: Florida State University (BS)

FIRST JOB: I was bagging groceries at Publix when I was 15.

HOBBY: I love saltwater fishing. I’ve been fortunate to travel to many exotic locations and meet some of the most kind and remarkable people on Earth. Most importantly, I’ve been able to share many of these experiences with my son. We’ve increasingly been able to combine our passion for fishing with humanitarian efforts to support impoverished rural villages in Panama, Guatemala and Mexico.

NONPROFIT PASSION: Once a month I visit a local prison. I go to visit, mentor and worship with those incarcerated — some of whom will likely never be released. I’ve developed connections with quite a few of the guys. Some have stories that evoke sympathy and hope for rehabilitation, others not so much. Every visit is all at once complicated, challenging and incredibly rewarding.

INDUSTRY TREND: The move to omnichannel sales and product delivery. The COVID pandemic was an enormous accelerant for changes that were already underway in the retail industry.