STEVEN KOLB
Chief Executive Officer, Council of Fashion Designers of America
New York, NY | @cfda
Steven Kolb serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), where he supports the American fashion industry’s 450+ designers. In his role, Kolb works closely with CFDA members to manage the organization’s membership, initiatives, and philanthropic efforts, helping to create a stronger, more unified industry.
Kolb has played a key role in fostering emerging American talent through programs like the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, which provides critical support and guidance to up-and-coming designers. He is also involved in organizing the annual CFDA Fashion Awards, an event that highlights the creativity and impact of American fashion.
Kolb led CFDA’s acquisition of the Fashion Calendar and works to ensure the smooth coordination of New York Fashion Week. He is also committed to addressing important issues in the industry, such as model health and safety, through the CFDA Health Initiative. Additionally, he helped establish the Fashion Manufacturing Initiative to support and revitalize New York City’s garment industry. Kolb has been involved in creating CFDA’s open-access resource hub to help designers navigate the shift towards more environmentally responsible practices. He believes that supporting designers with the right tools and resources can lead to meaningful progress in the industry’s approach to sustainability.
Kolb works closely with CFDA Chairman Thom Browne and the organization’s Board of Directors, and he is grateful for the collaboration and dedication of CFDA members and partners. He holds a master’s degree in public administration from New York University and remains focused on continuing to support and grow the American fashion industry.