Gap Inc., the global retailer behind marquee brands Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Athleta, has strengthened its strategic leadership with the appointment of music industry powerhouse Jody Gerson to its board of directors. The move comes as new data shows female board representation in U.S. retail has reached a record 33% in 2025, a reflection of growing industry-wide commitment to inclusivity, innovation, and forward-thinking governance.
Who Is Jody Gerson?
Jody Gerson isn’t just a music executive—she’s a recognized global leader. As Chairman and CEO of Universal Music Publishing Group, Gerson is the first woman to lead a major music publishing company and one of the few female executives at the top of the global music industry. Her decades-long career includes signing and developing some of the most influential songwriters and artists across genres, while also championing diversity and creative investment across every project she touches.
Her accolades include Billboard’s Power 100, Variety’s Women’s Impact Report, and the City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Award—establishing her as not only a business visionary but also a force for social change. The addition of her expertise further diversifies Gap Inc.’s board, which now includes leaders from media, technology, consumer goods, and finance
“Gap Inc. has long been a cultural icon, bridging fashion, music, and identity. I’m honored to join Gap Inc.’s Board of Directors and excited to bring my perspective and experience in the creative industries to the table. Equally, I’m energized to support Richard Dickson’s vision and draw inspiration from Gap’s remarkable renaissance as a brand that’s become synonymous with the culture of music,” said Gerson.
Strategic Value for Gap Inc.
Gap Inc. has spent the last several years restructuring for digital growth and enterprise agility. The appointment of Gerson, with her proven record in creative brand-building and data-driven talent management, aligns closely with key growth pillars: expanding customer reach, investing in creative talent, and deepening cross-industry innovation.
“Jody’s ability to connect culture and commerce is exactly what makes her such a dynamic leader,” said Mayo A. Shattuck III, Chair of the Board, Gap Inc. “Her vision and creativity will help us strengthen our brands’ resonance with the next generation of consumers.”
Boardroom Trends: Retail, Gender, and Market Context
Industry research shows that S&P 500 retailers with diverse boards outperform peers on innovation and market valuation. With the retail landscape being reshaped by digital acceleration, rapid consumer shifts, and culture-first strategies, Gap Inc. is following a data-driven playbook: recruit top-tier talent from creative verticals and ensure broad perspectives shape the business agenda.
According to Statista, the average female board representation in leading U.S. retailers has risen from just 22% a decade ago to over 33% in 2025, underscoring how inclusive leadership is key to future-proofing consumer businesses.
Looking Ahead: Shaping Tomorrow’s Retail
Gap Inc. is entering a new chapter with a revitalized approach to storytelling, customer engagement, and brand purpose. The addition of Jody Gerson is not only a milestone in talent acquisition but a reflection of bigger trends sweeping American retail: representation, alliance across cultural sectors, and the belief that creative leadership sits at the heart of transformative growth.
As Gap Inc. prepares for the next wave of strategic moves and market opportunities, its board—now featuring leaders from fashion, music, finance, and beyond—aims to drive the company’s mission to “deliver modern American optimism to customers everywhere.”
