Stefon Burns is a seasoned business executive in retail and consumer goods, operating at the intersection of rigorous analytics and sharp strategic insight. He believes the best decisions emerge when data meets empathy—for the people companies serve and the communities they impact.
He is the Global Head of Brand and Product Strategy at Ralph Lauren, where he leads enterprise-wide strategic direction. In this role, he partners with senior business and creative leaders to translate long-term vision into measurable results and lasting impact. Since joining in 2022, the Ralph Lauren brand has achieved record levels of consideration across audiences, increased net promoter scores across retail experiences, and double digit sales growth in their prioritized categories – all of which has resulted in nearly 50% CAGR in stock price performance over the same time period. In his prior role as Chief of Staff to the CEO, he supported a renewed culture of cross-functional collaboration and impact oriented execution. He is energized by the challenge of transforming complex market dynamics into actionable strategies that both honor the brand’s heritage and propel its growth ambitions.
Throughout his career, each chapter has deepened his understanding of what drives high-performing consumer businesses. From Morgan Stanley and McKinsey to AB InBev, Stefon has developed a versatile toolkit for identifying the data that matters—and using it to complement sharp gut instinct about what matters most. He has led turnaround efforts for distressed retailers, developed revenue enhancing pricing strategies across industries ranging from confectionery to financial services, and advised startup founders on go-to-market strategies for the digital era.
A Bronx New York native who had the good fortune to travel the world through his father’s military service, Stefon’s journey has been shaped by the communities that cultivated his curiosity and potential. He is recognized for his accessible, values-driven leadership with human-centered passion. After earning Ron Brown and Jackie Robinson scholarships, he attended the University of Pennsylvania and Harvard Business School—experiences that reinforced his commitment to mentorship, inclusive innovation, and creating pathways for under-resourced talent.