Linda Hubbard

Linda Hubbard is the president and chief executive officer of Carhartt, Inc., a global company specializing in workwear apparel, footwear, and accessories. In her role, Hubbard develops and executes corporate strategy and oversees all aspects of business operations, including product merchandising and design, marketing, sales, EMEA operations, finance, human resources, planning, information technology, and the company's global manufacturing, sourcing, and distribution supply chain across more than 20 countries. She is the first non-family member to serve as president and CEO in the company's history.

Hubbard began her career after graduating from Michigan State University's Broad School of Business with a bachelor's degree in accounting. She holds Certified Public Accountant and Chartered Global Management Accountant certifications. Hubbard spent two decades at Plante Moran in public accounting, where she worked on the Carhartt account as an intern before becoming a partner. She later joined Carhartt as chief financial officer, served a decade as CFO, then another decade as president and chief operating officer before becoming CEO.

During Hubbard's tenure, Carhartt has expanded its product offerings and distribution channels, including the launch of a dedicated women's line and the strengthening of direct-to-consumer platforms such as Carhartt.com, retail stores, and Carhartt Company Gear. She guided the company through the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting production to create masks and gowns for frontline workers. Hubbard has maintained the brand's focus on durability and performance in workwear, even as the category has gained popularity in fashion.

Beyond Carhartt, Hubbard serves on the Board of Directors of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and participates in its executive, audit, and HR and governance committees. She also serves on the boards of Barton Malow, the Michigan State University Research Foundation, Business Leaders of Michigan, and the Detroit Economic Club. Hubbard has championed workforce development through partnerships with Ford Motor Company, including the Essential Unsung Heroes event and the Ford Super Duty Carhartt Package, and has promoted skilled trades through the Join the Trades portal in collaboration with the National Center for Construction Education and Research.

Hubbard has received recognition for her leadership in the apparel and retail industries, including the Distinguished Alumni Award from Michigan State University and being named a Top Women in Retail honoree. She has spoken at NRF: Retail's Big Show and the Milken Institute Global Conference, and has shared her insights with students as a commencement speaker and mentor to emerging leaders.