Ralph Lauren adds Valerie Jarrett to board

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Oct 21, 2020

Ralph Lauren Corporation has added Valerie Jarrett to the company’s board of directors, effective October 20, 2020. 

Jarrett previously served as senior advisor to the Obama Foundation and media company Attn. In her role with the Obama Administration, she oversaw the Offices of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs and chaired the White House Council on Women and Girls. She also served as co-chair of the Obama-Biden Presidential Transition Team and as senior advisor to Obama's presidential campaign.

Over the course of her career, Jarrett has also served as the president and chief executive officer of The Habitat Company. Prior to that, she served for eight years in Chicago government as deputy corporation counsel for Finance and Development, deputy chief of staff for Mayor Richard M. Daley, and commissioner of the Department of Planning and Development. Before her government work, she practiced law with two private law firms. 

She currently serves on the board as chair of When We All Vote, and co-chair of the United State of Women, Lyft, Inc., 2U, Inc., Ariel Investments, Sweetgreen, Time’s Up, the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and the Economic Club of Chicago.

“We are pleased to welcome [Jarrett] to the Ralph Lauren board of directors," said Ralph Lauren, executive chairman and chief creative officer.

"[Jarrett] is a proven and highly respected leader with a clear passion for citizenship and making a positive impact on the world. [Her] breadth of experience across the public and private sectors and unparalleled expertise in government, law and leadership will bring new perspective as we continue to build the future for our iconic company.”

“[Jarrett's] unique perspective and insights as one of the country’s most distinguished leaders makes her an excellent addition to the Ralph Lauren board," added Patrice Louvet, president and chief executive officer.

With Jarrett's appointment, the Ralph Lauren board is now comprised of 13 directors. 

Her appointment follows the recent addition of Darren Walker, president and chief executive officer of the Ford Foundation, to the board this year.