Kyle Leahy Steps Down as Glossier CEO After Pivotal Three-Year Leadership

The beauty world is seeing big executive shifts again as Kyle Leahy Steps Down from her role as Glossier’s chief executive officer.

A Strategic Leadership Change to Usher in Glossier’s Next Growth Phase

After three transformative years, Kyle Leahy Steps Down from the helm of Glossier, effective at the end of this year.

She joined Glossier in 2021 as the brand’s first chief commercial officer and later became CEO in May 2022, replacing founder Emily Weiss.

In her farewell note to staff, Leahy stated the company now enters a new phase defined by scale, profitability, and brand strength.

Therefore, the board agreed this is the right time to bring in a new CEO who can lead Glossier’s future growth chapter.

Emily Weiss Remains Executive Chairwoman While Search for Successor Begins

Notably, founder Emily Weiss will continue as executive chairwoman but has no plans to resume the CEO role during the transition.

Weiss expressed gratitude for Leahy’s leadership and her ability to steer Glossier through critical strategic shifts in recent years.

“Kyle understood this brand deeply,” said Weiss, “and evolved our model toward profitability while preserving our cultural uniqueness.”

Both leaders emphasized that Glossier has never been about a single personality but a broader mission rooted in community and innovation.

Strategic Wins Under Leahy’s Tenure Strengthened Glossier’s Global Presence

Under Leahy, Glossier made a bold retail pivot, launching in Sephora stores in early 2023 after years of a DTC-only approach.

This retail partnership quickly expanded to global markets including the U.K., France, Mexico, and the Middle East within one year.

Glossier’s fragrance category also boomed under her watch, becoming the brand’s fastest-growing division with over $100 million in annual sales.

The successful launch of “Impressions of Glossier You” and scented body products helped redefine the brand’s product strategy.

Internal Challenges and Restructuring Marked a Period of Transformation

However, her tenure wasn’t without challenges, as Glossier navigated post-pandemic recovery and workforce restructuring over the past few years.

The company previously laid off nearly 200 employees and streamlined roles again in 2023 as it repositioned for retail and global growth.

Industry sources now estimate Glossier’s overall sales sit around $275 million, signaling improved stability and momentum for the next chapter.

Investors and Insiders Applaud Kyle Leahy’s Impact and Future Vision

Kirsten Green of Forerunner Ventures, a key investor, praised Leahy for leading with “clarity, creativity, and commitment to core values.”

Thanks to her guidance, Glossier emerges stronger, more focused, and better equipped to thrive in a competitive beauty industry landscape.

As Kyle Leahy Steps Down, Glossier prepares for its next chapter with optimism, grounded by a stronger foundation and global ambition.

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