New York, New York, United States, October 2025 — Gena Smith has been appointed as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at J.Crew, marking a significant leadership addition to the iconic American fashion brand. With over two decades of global experience across luxury, retail, and creative industries, Gena’s appointment reflects J.Crew’s commitment to fostering a people-first culture and driving transformative growth.
Before joining J.Crew, Gena served as the Chief Human Resources Officer, North America at LVMH Inc., where she led HR strategy for a portfolio of luxury maisons, focusing on executive talent acquisition, leadership development, and inclusion initiatives. Over her 14-year tenure at LVMH, she also held key positions including Senior Vice President, Human Resources and Head of Global Executive and Creative Recruitment, shaping leadership teams across brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Fendi.
Earlier in her career, Gena held senior leadership roles at Karen Harvey Consulting Group as Global Managing Director, and at Russell Reynolds Associates as Executive Director, where she specialized in executive search and leadership development for global fashion and retail clients. She began her consulting career with Ray & Berndtson, building a strong foundation in organizational strategy and leadership advisory.
Beyond her corporate roles, Gena is a passionate advocate for creativity, diversity, and education. She currently serves on the Board of Governors of the Parsons School of Design – The New School, the Fashion Scholarship Fund, and as a Board Member at Gabriela Hearst. She previously contributed as an Advisory Committee Member at Runway of Dreams, supporting adaptive fashion and inclusive design initiatives.
As Chief Human Resources Officer at J.Crew, Gena will lead global HR strategy, talent development, and organizational transformation, aligning people and purpose to drive innovation and elevate J.Crew’s position in the global fashion landscape.
About J.Crew
Founded in 1983, J.Crew has been a pioneer in redefining American style, crafting timeless pieces that blend classic design with a modern sensibility. With an enduring focus on quality, craftsmanship, and creativity, J.Crew continues to inspire confidence and self-expression through its distinctive approach to fashion.
From wardrobe staples to iconic collections, J.Crew’s legacy is rooted in its commitment to creating clothing that feels both familiar and refreshingly new — shaping how generations express their personal style with authenticity and character.
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