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Gap Inc. has named industry veteran Chris Blakeslee as Athleta's new CEO, intending to propel the women's activewear brand to greater heights. Blakeslee's retail and wellness expertise is anticipated to foster product innovation, accelerate growth, and support female empowerment initiatives.
Gap named Chris Blakeslee as Athleta's new president and chief. The company said it selected him to lead the company due to his extensive expertise and experience in the retail and wholesale of apparel. He is expected to drive growth in the company further using his know-how in the business.
As the new CEO, Blakeslee will also work on product innovation for Athleta's line while ensuring he will fulfill the mission of empowering girls and women through the brand's Power of She Fund, which aims to break barriers for all females.
As per Fashion United, Gap Incorporated's executive chairman and interim CEO, Bob Martin, commended Blakelee's leadership skills and remarkable track record in the wellness and active apparel segment. This makes him the most fitting person to manage Athleta and lead it toward sustainable growth by offering high-quality products and an exceptional digital and offline shopping experience.
"A true brand champion, Chris is known for driving results in high-growth businesses through the blend of creativity and operational rigor," Gap Inc. interim chief, Bob Martin, said in a press release. "Chris is a strong, decisive leader and proven business driver across multiple industries, including active apparel and wellness – one of the fastest and most aspirational retail sectors – making him well suited to guide Athleta into long-term, sustainable growth rooted in delivering high-quality performance product and a rich omni shopping experience."
Finally, the upcoming CEO, who will officially join the company on August 7, also commented, "I am thrilled to join the Gap Inc. team and to lead Athleta – a brand I have long admired. I see an incredible runway for the brand to capitalize on its unique, purpose-led positioning and performance product innovation, leveraging its assets across marketing, stores, product and community to deliver consistent growth."
