E.A. Hughes, a division of Solomon Page specializing in executive search for the retail and consumer sectors, partnered with American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. to identify and place Stephanie Pugliese on its Board of Directors.
Managing Director, Elaine Hughes, spearheaded the search with a distinctive and personalized approach, tailored to meet the specific needs of American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. Her strategy focused on understanding the company's unique culture and technical requirements. The dedicated team at E.A. Hughes utilized a combination of behavioral interviews, in-depth screenings, and a robust competency-based framework to evaluate potential candidates. Utilizing this comprehensive method ensured a precise assessment of each candidate’s capabilities and cultural alignment with American Eagle Outfitters, Inc. As a result of this rigorous process, the team identified Stephanie Pugliese, whose extensive experience and outstanding reputation within the industry made her the ideal fit.
Stephanie's extensive experience and deep industry knowledge will provide invaluable insights and strategic guidance to American Eagle Outfitters, Inc., enhancing its leadership team and driving the company's continued growth and innovation. Currently, Stephanie serves as an independent Board Member for both Fortune Brands Innovations and Cooper’s Hawk Winery and Restaurants. She is also a member of the Advisory Board for the Women in Retail Leadership Circle. Stephanie brings a wealth of leadership experience, having served as President of the Americas at Under Armour, Inc. from 2019 to 2023. Prior to this, she was President, CEO, and a Board Member at Duluth Holdings. Her career also includes significant roles at Lands’ End, Inc. and Ann Inc. Stephanie earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from New York University Stern School of Business.
“It has been a privilege to represent American Eagle Outfitters in the search for an additional Board Director and to ultimately recruit such an outstanding executive as Stephanie Pugliese,” said Managing Director, Elaine Hughes. “Stephanie has distinguished herself throughout her career as a leader and a great merchant. I am grateful to Jay Schottenstein and the AEO Board for partnering with me on the successful conclusion of this project, and I anticipate Stephanie’s participation on the Board to be significant.”
