Gap Inc. Welcomes Jody Gerson as Newest Board Member to Enhance Cultural Influence

Gap Inc. Welcomes Jody Gerson to Its Board of Directors

In a significant move to bolster its creative and cultural influence, Gap Inc. has named Jody Gerson, the esteemed Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG), as a new member of its Board of Directors, effective immediately. With over thirty years of experience in the music and entertainment industry, Gerson is poised to make substantial contributions to Gap's ongoing mission of integrating culture with commerce.

Gerson isn't just any incoming board member; she is a trailblazer in the music world who broke barriers as the first female executive to lead a major music publisher globally. Her time at UMPG has been characterized by a commitment to fostering creativity and promoting diverse voices in the industry. Under her leadership, UMPG has not only signed top-tier artists like Adele, Harry Styles, and Kendrick Lamar but has also successfully acquired the rights to iconic catalogs from legends such as Bob Dylan and Neil Diamond.

Richard Dickson, President and CEO of Gap Inc., emphasized Gerson's value to the brand by stating, "Jody is a cultural force in her own right. Her insights into 'fashiontainment'—the blending of fashion, music, and celebrity—are unparalleled. We believe that style serves as a narrative tool, and her ability to uplift voices and craft cultural experiences is vital for our transformation into a purpose-led house of brands."

Mayo A. Shattuck III, the Chair of the Board for Gap, also praised Gerson's unique ability to unite culture with commerce. He said, "Her vision and creativity will undoubtedly bolster our brands' connection with the emerging consumer demographic."

Gerson’s new role at Gap Inc. aligns perfectly with the company’s recent initiatives, particularly its viral marketing campaigns that have successfully merged music and fashion. One such campaign, “Better in Denim,” featuring pop sensation Katseye, amassed over 400 million views and became a record-breaking trend on TikTok. This intersection of cultural relevance and commercial success is marked as a cornerstone of Gap’s evolving identity.

Apart from her role at UMPG, Gerson is actively involved in various impactful initiatives. She serves on the boards of prominent organizations, including the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Ancestry.com, and Project Healthy Minds. Furthermore, she co-founded the nonprofit organization She Is The Music, advocating for gender equality within the music industry.

"Gap Inc. has long been a cultural icon, intersecting fashion, music, and identity," Gerson remarked. "Joining the Board of Directors is both an honor and a remarkable opportunity to contribute to the legacy of an influential brand like Gap. I look forward to supporting Richard Dickson's vision as the brand redefines its cultural significance."

As Gap Inc. forges ahead under Gerson's guidance, the brand's commitment to maintaining a diverse and dynamic board will be paramount in navigating the complexities of modern commerce and culture. With her extensive background in the entertainment industry and a track record of fostering creativity and inclusion, Gerson is set to be a game-changer for the iconic apparel company.

About Gap Inc.

Established in 1969, Gap Inc. stands as the largest specialty apparel company in the United States, with a commitment to producing a variety of iconic brands, including Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic, and Athleta. The company champions a purpose-driven ethos, bridging the gaps in culture, community, and commerce through their diverse range of products available worldwide in both physical and online retail environments. With a focus on innovation and sustainability, Gap Inc. continues to aspire towards shaping a better world while remaining a staple in American culture and lifestyle.