Kendra Scott names new CEO

U.S. lifestyle brand Kendra Scott on Tuesday announced the appointment of Chris Blakeslee as its new chief executive officer, effective January 12.

A sporting apparel veteran, Blakeslee was formerly the CEO of Gap Inc.-owned Athleta, a position he served in for over two years. Before that, he was president of sister activewear brand Alo Yoga, where he was credited for scaling the U.S. brand from under $50 million to a $1B+ direct-to-consumer brand in less than five years.

“Chris understands our customer-first mission, and I’m excited to see him lead with purpose—driving strategic growth and deepening brand affinity,” said Kendra Scott, chief visionary officer and executive chairwoman.

“His forward-looking vision strengthens our holistic brand world, where product, environment, community and culture work seamlessly together. Chris honors my vision while adding a dynamic perspective, making him the ideal steward for our next phase of growth,” added the brand founder.

Kendra Scott continues to strengthen its position as a lifestyle brand, with expansions into eyewear, fragrance, and home since its inception 23 years ago. In 2023, the company launched Yellow Rose by Kendra Scott, alongside the brand’s recent expansion into apparel, hats, and footwear.

Under Blakeslee’s leadership, the brand said it “remains committed to a bullish retail strategy and continues to expand into new categories,” according to a press release.

“Kendra has built an extraordinary brand grounded in a deeply customer-first, experience-driven approach,” said Chris Blakeslee, chief executive officer.

“I’m energized by the opportunity to bring the world of Kendra Scott to life in richer, more immersive ways across product, environment, community, and culture—building on the strong foundation already in place as we shape the brand’s next era.”

In January last year, Kendra Scott entered the eyewear category, following a new licensing partnership with American eyewear giant, Marchon Eyewear.