Biography
Chris Harlan is a Product, Merchandising, and Commercial Executive with a proven track record of shaping iconic global brands across Fashion, Home Furnishings, and Furniture. A results-driven creative leader with deep expertise in Retail, Digital, and Wholesale, known for driving growth and transformation in both large-scale publicly traded companies and founder-led businesses looking to scale.
A strategic operator with a distinct ability to balance creativity and entrepreneurship with commerce and operational rigor—developing innovative product strategies, immersive customer experiences, and driving brand expansion both domestically and internationally. Adept at navigating complex business cycles, from rapid growth and market expansion to brand reinvention and strategic evolution.
Forged in the golden era of modern retail, apprenticing under several of the industry’s most pioneering Founders and CEOs—immersed in environments that redefined the customer experience, product storytelling, and operational excellence. A trusted Board Member and Advisor, bringing governance, brand expertise, and market insight to companies navigating critical inflection points in growth and brand evolution.
Committed to fostering the next generation of industry talent, Harlan is deeply engaged in mentorship and education. He has served as the Merchandising Executive Sponsor of Gap Inc.’s Retail Management Program (RMP), a Guest Instructor at Kent State University’s School of Fashion, and a Panel Judge for the Joe’s Blackbook Annual Design Scholarship.