Kendra Scott taps Gap veteran for new C-suite role
Kendra Scott Design Inc. is once again adding to its C-suite – this time by creating a new position.
Adrienne Gernand has been named chief business officer of the jewelry and lifestyle retailer, effective April 27. In the newly-created role, the company says Gernand will help strengthen the organization's strategic category expansion, enabling scalability and advancing the brand's vision of building the “House of Kendra Scott.”
Gernand has spent nearly three decades in the retail industry, serving at Gap Inc. for a total of more than 21 years across two stints. Most recently, she served as the president and managing director of international and the company’s B2B division. From 2012 to 2019, she held senior VP roles at The Children's Place.
"Adrienne has a proven track record for identifying high potential growth opportunities. Her appointment lays the foundation for advancing the brand onto the global stage and into new product categories," said Kendra Scott CEO Chris Blakeslee, who joined the company from Athleta in January. "Her ability to navigate complex retail environments, spanning emerging companies to large, established organizations, makes her uniquely qualified to accelerate our expansion strategy."
Kendra said Gernand’s tenure at Gap Inc. gives her expertise that spans launching new market entry models, structuring complex strategic partnerships, and optimizing real estate portfolios to unlock long term brand value and operational scale.
"I am thrilled to join Kendra Scott at such an exciting time," said Gernand. "I look forward to building on the company's strong customer-first foundation and shaping a future-ready strategic partnership portfolio that supports Kendra and Chris' vision for globalization."
Earlier this month, Kendra Scott named Mike McMullen as its next CFO, joining the company from Yeti Holdings. The executive moves aim to drive the brand’s “next chapter,” according to the company, which has 20 new store openings planned for 2026.
"We are investing in world-class leadership and strengthening our global retail capabilities as we evolve into an attainable luxury house," added Blakeslee.
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Founded in 2002 by fashion designer Kendra Scott, Austin, Texas-based Kendra Scott Design Inc. operates more than 165 namesake experiential stores and pop-up locations. Its products are also available through wholesale partners, including Nordstrom and Dillard's, and at more than 1,000 specialty boutiques.
