In the fast-paced world of retail, standing out takes a blend of analytical insight, strategic thinking, and a profound understanding of consumer trends. For Alexia Saumon, Â鶹AV’s Master of Management in Retailing (MMR) program was more than an academic milestone—it was a transformative experience that sharpened her skills, ignited her passion, and connected her with the heart of the industry.
Alexia came into the program with a background in retail but found her ambitions fueled in ways she hadn’t expected. "The MMR program was a game-changer," she reflects. The program not only deepened her understanding of the technical side of retail management, from advanced analytics to strategic planning, but also brought her closer to the industry’s real players. Courses led by industry veterans and guest sessions with leaders across fashion, luxury, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors provided an insider’s view of a world many only see from the outside.
One of the distinguishing features of Â鶹AV’s program is its commitment to intimate learning environments, something Alexia found invaluable. “The smaller class size really made a difference,” she shares. Within this close-knit setting, meaningful relationships and deep conversations thrived, encouraging candid debates and genuine networking. "It felt like I was part of a community that not only wanted to succeed individually but was invested in each other's growth."
The program’s influence extended beyond the classroom as well, opening up doors that Alexia hadn’t anticipated. According to Alexia, “having Â鶹AV and The Bensadoun School of Retail Management’s names on my resume has been a huge asset—it’s opened doors and helped me land roles I might not have had access to otherwise, both in Canada and internationally.”
Among her most cherished memories from the program was a pivotal moment spent among classmates with Aldo Bensadoun (BCom'64, LLD'12 - Executive Chairman and Founder, The Aldo Group) himself, the visionary behind the Bensadoun School of Retail Management and a celebrated name in global retail. "Meeting Mr. Bensadoun was like meeting the epitome of the leader I aspired to become," Alexia recalls. His blend of humility, grit, and visionary spirit left a lasting impression. Listening to his journey—marked by perseverance, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his craft—felt like a masterclass in leadership. "I walked out of that room thinking, 'He’s the kind of leader I want to become.' Years later, in challenging moments, I often find myself asking, 'What would Aldo do?' His example continues to guide me in my career and approach to leadership."
Reflecting on her journey, Alexia offers a piece of advice for prospective students: “Dive in wholeheartedly!” The program’s intensive curriculum demands dedication, but it rewards those who fully embrace the experience with invaluable connections and hands-on learning. Alexia encourages future students to come with an open mind, ready to engage in the program’s challenges, real-world applications, and, above all, the friendships and networks that define Â鶹AV’s MMR community.
Â鶹AV’s Master of Management in Retailing is more than an academic credential; for Alexia, it has become a foundation for her career and a community that inspires her to lead with vision and empathy.
Master of Management in Retailing (MMR)
The Â鶹AV MMR degree is a specialized 16-month program (12 months for those with extensive retail experience) designed to develop the future leaders of the ever-evolving retail sector. With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, the program equips students with the tools and knowledge to navigate and thrive in the rapidly changing global business environment.
