Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott founded her eponymous jewelry company, evolving from a home-based business to a billion-dollar brand with extensive retail and philanthropic initiatives. After founding her eponymous jewelry company from a spare bedroom in 2002, Kendra Scott quickly established her brand as a force in design and philanthropy, leading it to a billion-dollar valuation within 14 years. Prior to launching her jewelry line, Scott demonstrated her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community support by establishing ‘The Hat Box,’ a venture specializing in hats for women undergoing chemotherapy, which incorporated a philanthropic model by donating a portion of proceeds to cancer research. In 2002, Scott officially launched Kendra Scott LLC from her home in Austin, Texas, with an initial investment of $500, personally selling her first collection to local boutiques.

By 2005, her distinctive designs garnered national attention, selected to accessorize Oscar de la Renta’s spring 2006 runway show. Her jewelry continued to gain prominence, notably featured in Randolph Duke’s 2007 runway show. Following the 2008 financial crisis, a crucial order from Nordstrom provided significant exposure, enabling the company’s subsequent expansion. Kendra Scott continued to innovate and grow her brand with the opening of her first retail store on Austin’s South Congress Avenue in 2010.

In February 2021, Kendra Scott transitioned from her role as CEO to Executive Chairwoman, appointing Tom Nolan as the new CEO, allowing her to focus on strategic initiatives. Beyond her corporate leadership, Scott has shared her extensive entrepreneurial expertise and insights as a guest shark on the reality television series ‘Shark Tank’ during seasons 12, 14, and 16, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs.