Sonya Gafsi Oblisk

Sonya Gafsi Oblisk is the chief merchandising and marketing officer at Whole Foods Market, where she oversees strategy, merchandising, ecommerce, product management, marketing, customer insights, private brands, and sustainability initiatives across Amazon’s worldwide grocery stores, including Whole Foods Market, Amazon Fresh, and Amazon Go. With more than 20 years of experience in retail and consumer goods, Oblisk focuses on a customer-centric approach, ensuring that decisions align with Whole Foods Market’s mission to nourish people and the planet.

Oblisk’s career includes leadership roles such as vice president of marketing for Sam’s Club at Walmart, where she developed expertise in brand management and consumer engagement. Since joining Whole Foods Market, she has contributed to advancing the company’s quality standards, supporting sustainability programs, and driving innovation in digital retail experiences. Her public speaking engagements at events including the Milken Institute Global Conference and Adweek’s Challenger Brands Summit address topics such as conscious leadership, sustainability, and the evolving role of trust in retail.

Oblisk has overseen initiatives like the Sourced for Good program, which supports communities and growers, and has emphasized transparency and responsible sourcing. Her work articulating Whole Foods Market’s values and vision has established her as a speaker and voice in the grocery and retail industry, reflecting her expertise in sustainability, brand strategy, and consumer engagement.