She has extensive industry experience in market research and design. Aparna was a consultant at IPSOS where she conducted consumer research and in-store intercepts to understand shopper behavior and brand perceptions. She translated primary and secondary data into actionable recommendations linking objectives to strategy. Her research focused on in-store design, graphics and the effects of color on branding. She worked with clients such as P&G, Target, Wal-Mart, Hershey’s, Kellogg, PepsiCo and Unfi. As a designer, Aparna worked in retail, translating concepts to design for clients such as Dick’s Sporting Goods, J C Penny, Macy’s, AT&T, Starbucks, Seattle's Best Coffee and Michaels. Aparna earned her Ph.D. from the University of Cincinnati (Lindner College of Business and College of Design Art Architecture and Planning).