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Jim Brett

Seasoned Business Leader and Retail Expert

Jim Brett is an experienced business executive with a notable career in retail and merchandising. He is currently the Owner of Future Found Group, a position he has held since September 2014.1 Here are some key points about Jim Brett's career and background:

Professional Experience

Jim Brett has held several high-profile positions in the retail industry:

  • CEO of J.Crew from June 2017 to November 201812
  • President of West Elm (a Williams-Sonoma brand) from January 2010 to June 20171
  • Chief Merchandising Officer at Urban Outfitters from August 2007 to January 20101
  • Divisional Merchandise Manager for Home at Anthropologie from 2003 to 20071

He has also held executive roles at JC Penney, Stage Stores, Charming Shoppes, and May Department Stores earlier in his career.1

Education

Brett holds a BSBA in Marketing from Boston University, which he attended from 1987 to 1991.1

Notable Achievements

During his tenure at West Elm, Brett was credited with:

  • Turning the brand profitable after a period of store closures2
  • Focusing on handmade textiles and merchandise from local craftspeople worldwide2
  • Launching the West Elm Local program in 2013 to give stores distinct regional identities2
  • Committing to increase Fair Trade USA certified goods in West Elm's inventory2

Current Ventures

As the Owner of Future Found Group, Brett has been involved in hospitality projects:

  • He co-owns Villa Maison Noir in Hout Bay, Cape Town3
  • Brett launched a sister property to Villa Maison Noir, focusing on creating a sanctuary-like space inspired by the natural beauty of the surrounding area3

Personal

Jim Brett is married to Ed Gray and lives in Brooklyn, New York City.2 He is known for his passion for design, art, and his advocacy for LGBTQ rights.2

Highlights

Aug 3 · Barron's
Scents and Sustainability—Candle Company Apotheke Is Sticking to Its Green Goals - Barron's
Scents and Sustainability—Candle Company Apotheke Is Sticking to Its Green Goals - Barron's
FOUNDERS FOCUS: Jim Brett, Future Found Sanctuary
Oct 1 · Business Insider
J. Crew's rise and fall from the 1980s to present day - Business Insider
J. Crew's rise and fall from the 1980s to present day - Business Insider
With the exclusive Villa Maison Noir under their belt, Jim Brett and ...

Related Questions

What is the Future Found Group's main focus?
How did Jim Brett's tenure at J.Crew impact the brand?
What are some of Jim Brett's notable achievements at West Elm?
How did Jim Brett's career evolve from his early roles to his current position?
What inspired Jim Brett to start the Future Found Group?
Jim Brett
Jim Brett, photo 1
Jim Brett, photo 2
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Experience

Owner at Future Found Group since September 2014
CEO at J.Crew (Jun 2017 - Nov 2018), President at West Elm, Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (Jan 2010 - Jun 2017), Chief Merchandising Officer at Urban Outfitters (Aug 2007 - Jan 2010)

Education

BSBA in Marketing from Boston University (1987 - 1991), High School at Bergen Catholic High School (1983 - 1987)

Location

Brooklyn, New York, United States