A career spent shaping the retail landscape of North America’s airports has positioned Nikki Harland, chief operations officer of Paradies Lagardère, as a force in the industry. A native of Atlanta, Georgia and graduate of Georgia State University, she has built a reputation as a results-driven leader with a sharp vision for operational excellence. At Paradies Lagardère, she has played a pivotal role in shaping strategies that drive innovation, elevate customer experience and refine operations in one of the most competitive retail environments. Harland’s leadership has been instrumental in keeping the company at the forefront of airport retail. She has focused on customer engagement strategies that blend technology, hospitality and personalized service to ensure travelers have a seamless shopping experience.
Her ability to identify opportunities and implement sustainable business practices has reinforced Paradies Lagardère’s position as a premier airport retailer. Beyond business strategy, Harland is a dedicated mentor and advocate for leadership development. She actively fosters an inclusive workplace culture where employees are empowered to take ownership of their roles. She believes in investing in talent, ensuring teams have the tools, skills and guidance to excel. Her influence extends beyond her company as she shares insights at industry conferences, lending her voice to discussions on the future of retail and leadership excellence. Harland’s extensive contributions have garnered industry recognition, making her a sought-after keynote speaker.
She has been instrumental in spearheading initiatives that strengthen Paradies Lagardère’s market presence, helping the company navigate shifts in consumer expectations and airport retail trends. Her ability to craft and implement progressive strategies has made a lasting impact on the organization. As a First-Year Titan 100 Honoree, Harland stands out for her commitment to innovation, excellence and people-first leadership. Of all her accomplishments, she takes the most pride in driving transformational change within her company. She has redefined operational standards, introduced new efficiencies and created an environment where employees are empowered to succeed. Under Harland’s leadership, Paradies Lagardère continues to grow, ensuring its adaptability and influence in the industry remain strong. She is dedicated to positioning the company for long-term success while shaping the future of airport retail with forward-thinking solutions that enhance both business performance and the traveler experience. Her impact is reflected in the company’s continued expansion, the strength of her teams and the industry-leading strategies that define its success.
