Alissa Amidon-Carbonaro is an accomplished executive who has dedicated more than three decades to shaping the landscape of international retail real estate, franchise development, and global expansion. Known for her ability to inspire teams, forge strategic partnerships, and navigate complex international markets with cultural sensitivity, she has emerged as a visionary leader who is equally passionate about business growth and empowering others to succeed. Alissa has built her career on a foundation of resilience, adaptability, and global perspective, making her a dynamic presence in both the corporate and nonprofit arenas.
Her professional journey began shortly after graduating from the University of Rochester, where she built a strong academic foundation that fueled her curiosity for business and leadership. Alissa’s early years at Cardinal Health offered her the chance to cultivate operational discipline and attention to detail, skills that would later prove invaluable as she took on higher-stakes responsibilities in the retail industry. This role marked the beginning of a career that would be characterized by both upward momentum and an ever-expanding global influence.
In 1997, Alissa joined The Limited, later Limited Brands then L Brands, where she began her long and distinguished career in real estate. She quickly established herself as a strategic thinker with an instinct for identifying opportunities in retail development and expansion. Rising through the ranks after stints in Data Management and Finance, she became Director of Real Estate, where she led transformative initiatives in corporate real estate strategy, lease administration, and property disposition. Her impact was felt not only in the financial performance of the business but also in the thoughtful way she approached negotiations and built relationships with internal and external partners.
By 2014, Alissa had earned the role of Assistant Vice President of International Real Estate, a position that marked a turning point in her career. In this role, she became deeply involved in the global expansion efforts of the company, helping guide La Senza, Bath & Body Works and Victoria’s Secret and related brands into new markets with precision and foresight. Her ability to balance corporate objectives with cultural awareness allowed her to develop strategic growth plans that resonated across continents. With her leadership, the company strengthened its international presence, proving Alissa’s ability to translate strategy into meaningful global impact.
Five years later, in 2019, Alissa was promoted to Vice President of International Real Estate for multiple brands including Bath & Body Works and Victoria’s Secret. With the dissolution of L Brands in 2021, Alissa became the lead for International Real Estate at Victoria’s Secret & Co, an independent company, adding additional responsibilities and geographies, a role she continues to hold today. In this capacity, she oversees a wide range of responsibilities, including managing international franchise and joint venture growth into new areas, executing complex real estate deals, and providing guidance on global expansion strategies. Her leadership has been integral to the company’s international growth story, as she has consistently navigated challenges with agility and transformed them into opportunities for success. With nearly three decades of tenure at one of the world’s most iconic brands, she has left an indelible mark on the organization and its ability to thrive across borders.
Alissa’s professional achievements are complemented by her extensive international exposure. Having traveled to 85 countries, she brings a truly global mindset to her work, understanding the nuances of culture, language, and business etiquette that define success in foreign markets. This depth of experience makes her uniquely positioned to advise boards and executive teams on strategies for sustainable growth in diverse environments. She is not only a strategist but also a connector, someone who sees the potential in relationships and leverages them to create mutual value.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Alissa has been actively engaged in nonprofit leadership, serving on boards and councils dedicated to making an impact in communities. Her service on leadership boards and nonprofit councils reflects her deep belief in giving back, supporting causes that align with her values, and using her expertise to benefit organizations beyond the corporate sector. This dedication to service underscores her character as a leader who prioritizes not only business outcomes but also societal impact.
Alissa’s personal interests further enhance her profile as a well-rounded and dynamic leader. As a certified Pilates instructor, she embodies a commitment to health, balance, and personal growth. Her passion for wellness extends to her professional life, where she emphasizes the importance of creating supportive, motivating environments in which teams can thrive. Her ability to balance a demanding executive career with meaningful personal pursuits reflects the discipline, focus, and energy she brings to every endeavor.
Throughout her career, Alissa has been recognized not only for her technical expertise in real estate and global business but also for her interpersonal skills and leadership style. She is known for motivating teams, fostering inclusive cultures, and ensuring that success is shared. Her colleagues consistently endorse her for her expertise in commercial real estate, contract negotiation, and corporate strategy, but just as often, they highlight her ability to inspire, guide, and uplift those around her.
Today, Alissa stands at a pivotal point in her career. Having achieved remarkable milestones and built a global reputation for excellence, she is seeking to expand her influence through board service. She is eager to bring her three decades of international experience, her track record of strategic execution, and her passion for helping others succeed into boardrooms where she can shape the future of organizations. For Alissa, this is not simply a new chapter but an opportunity to extend her leadership legacy, guiding companies toward growth while fostering and supporting the leaders of tomorrow.
Character:
Alissa demonstrates unwavering integrity, authenticity, and commitment to the success of others. She approaches leadership with empathy and cultural sensitivity, ensuring that diverse perspectives are valued and included. Her dedication to both corporate growth and nonprofit service highlights a character rooted in service and responsibility.
Knowledge:
With three decades of professional experience, Alissa brings a wealth of expertise in international real estate, franchise management, and strategic global expansion. Her extensive travels and exposure to 85 countries provide her with unparalleled insight into cross-cultural dynamics and market entry strategies. She combines technical knowledge with practical application, ensuring her decisions are informed, precise, and impactful.
Strategic:
Alissa is a forward-thinking strategist who consistently identifies opportunities for growth and transformation. She has proven her ability to guide global brands through expansion while aligning business objectives with local market realities. Her board-level perspective ensures that organizations benefit from both her big-picture vision and her ability to execute on complex, high-stakes initiatives.
Communication:
Known for her motivating and collaborative style, Alissa excels at communicating across diverse stakeholders and building strong relationships. She inspires teams with clarity, purpose, and vision, ensuring alignment at every stage of execution. Her communication skills are both a tool for driving strategy and a source of trust, making her an effective leader in both boardrooms and international negotiations.
