Gilt guy takes to online catwalk

Designer clothing and accessories retailer Rent the Runway’s business is dependent on an advanced reverse logistics and transportation network, which is why the company just hired a leading logistic executive from an online competitor.

New York-based Rent the Runway named Chris Halkyard its first ever chief logistics officer to oversee the company’s just-in-time reverse logistics and vertically integrated operating systems.

In his new role, Halkyard will be tasked with optimizing the proprietary systems that Rent the Runway believes give it a competitive advantage. Halkyard is a veteran supply chain executive who assumes his new responsibilities Aug. 1 and joins Rent the Runway from Gilt where he most recently served as chief supply chain officer and general manager of distribution services.

Prior to Gilt, Halkyard held logistics roles at Marc Ecko, L'Occitane, FAO Schwarz, and May Department Stores before it became Macy’s.

“(Halkyard) has amazing experience in distribution and logistics which will allow us to innovate on the ways we continue to deliver rental experiences that exceed our customers’ expectations,” said Rent the Runway co-founder and CEO Jennifer Hyman.

Rent the Runway employs a unique business model that allows customers to rent designer clothing and accessories via platforms such as online, mobile, and retail locations in New York, Washington DC, Las Vegas and Chicago.

The company exposes customers to styles from more than 300 designers inspires them to expand their closets.