Which 10 CEOs or business leaders are driving innovation and sustainability in the fashion and apparel industry?
1. Stella McCartney – As the founder and creative force behind her eponymous brand, Stella McCartney is a prominent advocate for sustainable fashion. She prioritizes innovation in materials, such as using recycled and organic fabrics, and encourages circular economic practices in the industry.
2. Eileen Fisher – Eileen Fisher is the founder of the eponymous fashion brand known for its commitment to sustainability. She has been a pioneer in promoting transparency and ethical practices in the fashion supply chain, and works towards reducing waste through recycling and upcycling initiatives.
3. Emmanuel Gintzburger – As the CEO of Alexander McQueen, Gintzburger has emphasized the need for sustainability throughout the brand’s operations. He focuses on minimizing environmental impact, implementing responsible sourcing practices, and supporting circular design principles.
4. Helena Helmersson – Appointed as CEO of H&M in 2020, Helena Helmersson has been dedicated to transforming the fast fashion giant towards more sustainable practices. She actively promotes circularity, collects used garments for recycling, and aims to use 100% sustainably sourced materials by 2030.
5. Marie-Claire Daveu – As the Chief Sustainability Officer of Kering (parent company of luxury brands like Gucci and Saint Laurent), Marie-Claire Daveu is instrumental in driving sustainability within the fashion industry. She leads initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint, protect biodiversity, and ensure responsible sourcing.
6. Marco Bizzarri – As CEO of Gucci, Marco Bizzarri has made sustainability a core focus for the brand. He launched the “Carbon Neutral” initiative, emphasizing reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and implementing innovative strategies like regenerative agriculture to offset remaining emissions.
7. François-Henri Pinault – As the Chairman and CEO of Kering, François-Henri Pinault oversees the conglomerate’s sustainability efforts. He actively supports innovation by investing in promising sustainable fashion startups and promotes the development of sustainable materials and manufacturing processes.
8. Patagonia, Inc. – Although its CEO has changed over time, Patagonia remains a pioneer in sustainable apparel. The company has implemented numerous innovative initiatives, including recycling programs, responsible sourcing, and prioritizing long-lasting, durable products.
9. Bastian Lehmann – As the CEO of Postmates, a delivery platform used by various fashion and apparel brands, including sustainable ones, Lehmann plays an influential role in ensuring sustainable practices throughout the supply chain. He can drive change by partnering with brands committed to eco-friendly deliveries.
10. Yael Aflalo – Aflalo is the founder and CEO of Reformation, a popular sustainable fashion brand. She has championed eco-friendly practices, such as using deadstock fabrics and promoting recycling initiatives, to minimize waste in the fashion industry.