Corporate Buyer | Retail & Fashion Strategist | MIT Reality Hack Sponsorship Team

With a passion for fashion, retail strategy, and emerging technology, Emily Pond blends business acumen with creative innovation to drive success in both corporate retail and the tech industry.

Emily earned her Bachelor of Science in Retail Entrepreneurship from Florida State University, with a minor in Business Administration, equipping her with a strong foundation in brand management, merchandising, and data-driven decision-making.

She began her career in retail at M.A.C. Cosmetics, later joining Dillard’s, where she rapidly advanced from Area Sales Manager to Assistant Corporate Buyer and now serves as a Corporate Buyer, overseeing multiple clothing brands across all store locations.

In 2024, Emily joined the MIT Reality Hack Sponsorship Team, further expanding her expertise into AI, spatial computing, and innovative technologies shaping the future of commerce and consumer engagement. She attended MIT Reality Hack 2024 and 2025, working alongside industry leaders, technologists, and entrepreneurs to support groundbreaking advancements in XR and AI-driven experiences.

With a unique blend of business strategy, retail expertise, and a forward-thinking approach to technology, Emily is always looking for new ways to bridge fashion, retail, and emerging tech to create impactful, next-gen consumer experiences.