Speakers

For years, Pamela Barnum was the only woman working undercover in a Drug Enforcement Section with ninety-two specialized officers. During that time, she learned real-world techniques for building trust and interpreting nonverbal cues. Pamela later accepted a position as a federal prosecuting attorney. She spent countless hours in the courtroom, perfecting her expertise as a trust strategist and nonverbal communication expert.

Following a successful 20-year career in the criminal justice system, Pamela pursued graduate studies in corporate negotiations. As a trust strategist and communications expert, Pamela delivers techniques once considered a “secret second language.”

Pamela shares her experience, research, and expertise with humor, honesty, and energy, blending actionable strategies with memorable stories. She is a popular TEDx speaker and co-host of the hit TV show Building Bad. She is a featured expert and contributor to print media and television news programs in Canada and the United States.

Dean Henrico, Senior Vice-President of Asset Protection for Canada’s largest retailer, stands at the forefront of proactive asset protection. Through innovation and leveraging emerging technology, Dean has transformed the retail landscape and created both a safer and more profitable retail environment.

Beginning his retail career over 37 years ago, Dean rapidly ascended the ranks due to his visionary skills, passion, dedication and work ethic. Dean has been with Loblaw Companies Ltd. for over 20 years and was promoted to Vice-President at the age of 34 and Sr. Vice-President two years later. Prior to joining Loblaws, Dean held executive roles, in both Operations and Asset Protection, with Zellers and Wal-Mart Canada Ltd. In his current role, Dean leads the largest retail asset protection team in Canada which consists of the Security, Health and Safety and Medical Services teams.

Dean is a subject matter expert on all aspect of providing a safe environment for customers and employees and through innovation and process improvement, Dean has played a pivotal role in protecting Loblaws bottom line by preventing all forms of loss. Dean’s leadership and visionary planning skills has cultivated a team culture of excellence, accountability, and urgency.

Dean is adept at developing and implementing comprehensive strategies to mitigate risk, reduce loss, and safeguard Company assets. Dean is skilled in managing cross functional teams, fostering collaboration, and driving operational excellence. Dean has a deep understanding of industry trends, best practices, and emerging technology.

Dean believes that community safety is a join responsibility that does not rest solely on the shoulders of law enforcement. Dean works closely with key Chiefs of Police and elected officials to help promote community safety. Under Dean’s leadership, Loblaw Companies Ltd. was the first Canadian retailer to deploy game changing technology such as AI technology to lock shopping carts with unpaid merchandise, body worn cameras for front line staff  and time delayed safes.

Outside of work, Dean is a dedicated father to his two sons and a world traveler who enjoys exploring new destinations.

Kim Furlong is President & CEO of the Retail Council of Canada (RCC), bringing over two decades of experience at the intersection of public policy, business, and advocacy. Known for her strategic mindset and collaborative approach, Kim leads RCC at a pivotal time for the retail industry—championing members’ interests, shaping national policy, and building strong partnerships across sectors.

Before rejoining RCC in 2025, Kim spent six years as CEO of the Canadian Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA). There, she played a key role in elevating the voice of Canada’s private capital sector, influencing public policy, and strengthening the country’s investment ecosystem.

Prior to CVCA, Kim spent a decade at Amgen Canada leading External Affairs, and also served as a senior political aide in two federal ministerial offices.

Throughout her career, Kim has earned a reputation as a trusted advisor and effective advocate, with a deep network spanning business, government, and media. She is passionate about building consensus, delivering results, and helping industries thrive in an evolving economic landscape.

Kim is an avid cyclist, enthusiastic foodie, and lifelong book lover. Originally from the picturesque town of Percé, Quebec, she is a proud French Quebecer. She now lives in Toronto with her husband and their twin boys—affectionately known as “the Peanuts.”