Helen Dickinson OBE has become one of the most respected and influential figures in the British retail industry. As the Chief Executive Officer of the British Retail Consortium (BRC) since 2013, she has guided the sector through unprecedented challenges, from changing consumer behaviours and digital transformation to Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic. More than just a business leader, Helen Dickinson is also an advocate for diversity, sustainability, and social mobility. Her journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming the leading voice of retail offers insight into determination, resilience, and vision.
Early Life and Education
Helen Dickinson was born in Surrey in 1966 and spent part of her childhood in New Zealand before returning to the UK. She attended The King’s School, Ottery St Mary in Devon and later pursued her studies at Kingston Polytechnic. Her upbringing gave her a grounded perspective, instilling both a strong work ethic and a deep appreciation for community values. These qualities later influenced her approach to leadership in one of the most dynamic industries in Britain.
Her earliest experiences in the workforce included a position as a sales assistant in a high-street chemist, giving her first-hand exposure to the daily operations of retail. This grassroots experience would prove invaluable in her future career.
Career at KPMG
After completing her education, Helen Dickinson joined KPMG, one of the world’s leading professional services firms. Over the course of more than two decades, she specialised in the retail sector, rising to become the UK Head of Retail.
At KPMG, she worked with some of the largest and most complex retailers in the UK. Her role involved auditing, advisory services, and helping companies adapt to a rapidly changing market. This period shaped her analytical approach and deepened her understanding of the challenges retailers face—from financial pressures to evolving consumer trends.
Transition to the British Retail Consortium
In January 2013, Helen Dickinson took over as the Director-General of the British Retail Consortium, succeeding Stephen Robertson. Shortly afterwards, her title became Chief Executive Officer, reflecting the pivotal role she was to play in the organisation.
The BRC is the UK’s leading retail trade association, representing a sector that employs millions and contributes significantly to the national economy. As CEO, Helen Dickinson assumed responsibility for guiding retailers through policy changes, economic pressures, and technological disruption.
Her leadership coincided with one of the most turbulent decades in modern retail. The rise of e-commerce, the dominance of global giants like Amazon, the decline of the traditional high street, and political uncertainties such as Brexit created a perfect storm. Dickinson became a steady and pragmatic voice for the industry, frequently engaging with government and the media to articulate the needs and concerns of retailers.
Leading During the Pandemic
Helen Dickinson’s leadership was especially visible during the COVID-19 pandemic. As panic buying swept supermarkets and lockdown restrictions forced non-essential shops to close, she became a familiar face in government briefings and media appearances.
She urged the public to shop responsibly, reassured consumers about supply chains, and pressed for government support to prevent widespread retail collapse. Her calm, clear communication earned respect both inside and outside the sector. Retail, an industry often underappreciated, was suddenly recognised as a vital lifeline, and Dickinson ensured that retail workers received acknowledgement for their essential contributions.
Championing Diversity and Social Mobility
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Helen Dickinson has consistently advocated for social change within retail. She is an ambassador for the Social Mobility Commission, working to ensure that retail is accessible to people from all backgrounds.
Between 2012 and 2016, she chaired Working Chance, a charity dedicated to helping female ex-offenders gain employment. She has also supported initiatives promoting gender diversity in leadership, recognising that retail, as one of the UK’s largest employers, has a duty to reflect the communities it serves.
Her work in these areas underscores her belief that retail is not only about profits but also about people. By fostering inclusion and opportunity, she envisions a stronger and more sustainable sector.
Recognition and Honours
Helen Dickinson’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. In the 2016 New Year’s Honours, she was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to the retail industry. This recognition cemented her reputation as a leader whose influence extends far beyond the boardroom.
She continues to be featured in major publications such as Retail Week and The Guardian, and she is regularly invited to speak at high-profile conferences. Her ability to communicate complex issues with clarity has made her one of the most trusted voices in British business.
Focus on Sustainability
One of Helen Dickinson’s defining priorities at the BRC has been sustainability. Under her leadership, the consortium launched the Climate Action Roadmap, an ambitious plan to ensure the retail industry reaches net zero by 2040.
This initiative encourages retailers of all sizes to reduce carbon emissions across supply chains, packaging, and logistics. By promoting collaboration and transparency, Dickinson is positioning the UK retail sector as a global leader in sustainable practices. Her message is clear: retail must evolve to meet the needs of both consumers and the planet.
Economic Advocacy and Government Relations
Helen Dickinson has played a central role in lobbying government for policies that support the retail sector. From pressing for fairer business rates to addressing labour shortages, she ensures that the voices of retailers—large and small—are heard in Whitehall.
Her work has highlighted the disproportionate burden that outdated tax systems place on high-street retailers, compared to online competitors. By pushing for reform, she seeks to level the playing field and preserve the diversity of the British retail landscape.
A Trusted Public Voice
During her tenure, Helen Dickinson has built a reputation as a spokesperson who balances authority with relatability. She communicates in a straightforward manner, whether addressing the House of Commons, giving interviews to the BBC, or writing opinion pieces.
This ability to connect with both policymakers and the public has enhanced her effectiveness. At a time when the retail sector faces scepticism and scrutiny, Dickinson’s voice has been one of reason, reassurance, and credibility.
The Future of British Retail Under Helen Dickinson
As the retail landscape continues to shift, Helen Dickinson remains at the forefront of innovation and adaptation. Her priorities include:
-
Ensuring fair competition between online and physical retail.
-
Supporting digital transformation while protecting workers.
-
Driving sustainability commitments.
-
Advocating for inclusivity in employment practices.
-
Engaging with policymakers on tax and trade reforms.
The future of retail in the UK is uncertain, but with Dickinson’s guidance, the industry has a strong leader to navigate the journey.
Personal Qualities and Leadership Style
Helen Dickinson’s success can be attributed to more than her technical expertise. Colleagues and industry peers describe her as approachable, empathetic, and strategic. She combines analytical precision from her KPMG days with a people-centred approach that prioritises fairness and collaboration.
Her leadership style reflects modern values: transparency, adaptability, and integrity. She is not afraid to challenge outdated practices, but she also recognises the importance of consensus and collective action.
Conclusion
Helen Dickinson is far more than just the CEO of the British Retail Consortium; she is the voice of British retail. From her early days as a sales assistant to her current role at the helm of one of the most important trade bodies in the UK, she has consistently demonstrated vision, resilience, and a commitment to positive change.
Her advocacy for sustainability, fairness, and diversity ensures that she is not only shaping the present of British retail but also its future. With ongoing challenges such as economic pressures, climate change, and shifting consumer expectations, Helen Dickinson’s role remains as crucial as ever.
