J.Crew taps longtime LVMH exec as HR chief
J.Crew Group has added a human resources veteran to its C-suite.
The apparel company has named Gena Smith as its new chief human resources officer. In the role, Smith will oversee all aspects of J.Crew Group's human resources function, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, inclusion and belonging, leadership development, and organizational effectiveness. She will report to Libby Wadle, CEO of J.Crew Group.
Smith brings more than 20 years of experience in human capital strategy, executive recruitment, and organizational development across the fashion and retail industries. She joins J.Crew from LVMH North America, where she spent more than 14 years total, and most recently served as chief human resources officer for more than three and a half years. Her previous roles at the French luxury conglomerate included senior VP of human resources and head of global executive and creative recruitment.
"The strength of our people and the value they bring to our customers and stakeholders are fundamental to our success," said Wadle. "I am delighted to welcome Gena to our team. She is a dynamic leader with deep expertise in aligning people strategies with business goals in creative-led organizations. Her proven ability to build high-performing teams and foster inclusive, creative cultures will be a powerful asset as we continue to grow J.Crew Group."
Prior to her time at LVMH, Smith served as global managing director at Karen Harvey Consulting Group, where she advised global fashion and luxury brands on executive placement and organizational design. She also held leadership roles at Russell Reynolds Associates and Ray Berndtson.
Smith currently serves on the board of governors for the Fashion Scholarship Fund and Parsons School of Design.
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"I've long admired J.Crew Group's distinct voice and enduring influence in American style," said Smith. "I'm excited to join at such a pivotal time for the company and to partner with the leadership team to continue building a purpose-driven culture that attracts, empowers, and retains top talent."
As of Oct. 1, 2025, J.Crew Group operated 117 J.Crew retail stores, 158 Madewell stores, and 375 J.Crew Factory stores across the United States.
