Having mentors and sponsors can dramatically influence one’s career path. Amiee Bayer-Thomas, chief retail officer at Ulta Beauty, reflected on her professional journey while speaking at the Women in Retail Pavilion at CommerceNext last month. In conversation with Melissa Campanelli, co-founder of Women in Retail Leadership Circle, Bayer-Thomas emphasized the crucial difference between mentors and sponsors. While mentors provide guidance and advice, sponsors are the voices that vouch for you when it counts.

Captured in this video clip from the event, Amiee shares a critical career lesson taught to her by a lifelong mentor. The lesson highlights the importance of being proactive and speaking up for yourself.

Now, Amiee is committed to paying it forward, emphasizing the importance of advocating for others and creating opportunities for future generations of women leaders.

Women in Retail Leadership Circle members can view Bayer-Thomas’ full session from the Women in Retail Pavilion at CommerceNext 2026 here.