Katrina Lake

Katrina Lake is the founder and executive chairperson of Stitch Fix, an online personal styling service that integrates data science, algorithms, and human stylists to deliver curated clothing selections tailored to individual preferences. Lake launched the company while pursuing her MBA at Harvard Business School, introducing a subscription model where customers receive shipments of five handpicked items. This approach provided busy professionals with personalized fashion solutions at scale and contributed to Stitch Fix generating annual revenues exceeding $1 billion, establishing Lake as a leader in e-commerce and retail technology.

Lake led Stitch Fix through its initial public offering on NASDAQ, becoming the youngest woman to take a company public in the United States at that time. Her expertise spans technology, fashion, and consumer behavior, developed through previous roles at Polyvore, where she managed a blogger platform, and The Parthenon Group, consulting for e-commerce and retail clients. Lake is recognized for combining quantitative data, such as client insights, with qualitative styling, making her a sought-after voice on scaling startups and transforming traditional industries.

Lake serves as an independent director on the boards of Recruit Holdings, Grubhub, and Glossier, contributing her knowledge of tech-driven personalization and global marketplaces. Stitch Fix has received recognition, including ranking on Fast Company's Most Innovative Companies list and leading its Retail category, reflecting Lake's influence in customer-centric innovation. She is frequently invited to speak on topics such as entrepreneurship, data-driven decision-making, and fostering confidence in professional environments.

Lake's leadership has guided Stitch Fix to profitability and expansion, employing thousands across offices, warehouses, and styling hubs nationwide, and serving millions of active clients. Her public insights into building resilient businesses position her as an authority for audiences interested in leveraging technology for human-centered growth.