The RealReal taps eBay exec for C-suite role
The RealReal is adding a merchandising veteran to its C-suite as resale continues to gain steam.
The online luxury resale marketplace has named Alexis Hoopes as its new chief merchandising officer. In the role, The RealReal says Hoopes will lead the company’s merchandising strategy, with a focus on strengthening its luxury assortment, enhancing personalized product discovery and unlocking new opportunities for growth through technology, data and global marketplace expertise.
Hoopes joins The RealReal from eBay, where she served as VP and general manager of global fashion for two years. She led teams across the United States, U.K. and Europe, and helped build and scale the company's fashion business, expanding its Authenticity Guarantee program into new categories, price points and international markets.
The RealReal added that at eBay, Hoopes also helped expand luxury supply through cross-border commerce between Asia and the U.S., and developed resale-as-a-service partnerships with leading brands and retailers.
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"Alexis is a proven leader who brings a rare combination of luxury merchandising expertise, global marketplace experience and operational discipline," said Rati Sahi Levesque, president and CEO of The RealReal. "As we build on our leadership in luxury resale, her ability to connect exceptional merchandise with evolving consumer demand will be instrumental in accelerating growth, elevating the shopping experience and realizing the full potential of our platform."
Prior to eBay, Hoopes served as senior VP of e-commerce at toy giant Mattel, where she is credited with helping build the company's direct-to-consumer business, launching two digital commerce platforms and integrating American Girl's e-commerce operations. Earlier in her career, she spent nearly 15 years at Nordstrom in leadership roles spanning merchandising, strategy, e-commerce and planning.
"I've long admired The RealReal for bringing together the best of luxury fashion with the excitement of discovery," said Hoopes. "The opportunity to combine luxury products, deep proprietary data and emerging technologies to create a more personalized shopping experience is incredibly compelling. I'm excited to work with the team to expand our assortment, unlock new sources of supply and help shape the future of luxury resale."
Hoopes’ appointment comes as the company is expanding its brick-and-mortar footprint. Earlier this month, The RealReal opened its first store in Massachusetts on Oct. 15, at The Street Chestnut Hill shopping center. The company also recently expanded its presence in the Los Angeles area with the opening of a store in Glendale, Calif. In August, The RealReal relocated its store in West Palm Beach, Fla., from its longtime location to a larger, more modern space.
The RealReal operates 20 stores nationwide. The platform is the world's largest online marketplace for authenticated resale luxury goods, including fashion, jewelry, watches and more, used by a community of 45 million members.
