Paula Schneider | |
|---|---|
 Schneider in 2020 | |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | California State University (B.A.) |
| Occupation | Business executive |
| Years active | 1985–present |
Paula Schneider is an American business executive and breast cancer advocate who served as the president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Susan G. Komen for the Cure from 2017 to 2025. Previously, she served as the CEO of American Apparel from 2015 to 2016.
In 1985, Schneider founded Take Twoo, a multi-line representative firm that launched the brand BCBG Max Azria globally. She joined BCBG Max Azria in 1992 as President of Sales, a role she held until 2001, overseeing global strategy for all divisions. [1]
From 2001 to 2006, Schneider was president of Laundry by Shelli Segal, a contemporary fashion brand. [1] In May 2006, she became the group president of Warnaco Swimwear Group, where she oversaw brands including Speedo and Calvin Klein until February 2010. [2]
In 2010, Schneider joined The Gores Group, a private equity firm, as a Senior Advisor evaluating acquisitions in the consumer sector. From 2011 to 2013, she served as CEO of Big Strike LLC, a Gores Group portfolio company, where she led acquisition strategies and junior sportswear distribution to mid-tier retailers. She was the first female CEO within The Gores Group’s portfolio. [3]
In December 2015, Schneider was named CEO of American Apparel. During her tenure, she managed a pre-packaged Chapter 11 restructuring of the company. [4] [5] After resigning from American Apparel, Schneider became CEO of 7 for All Mankind, Splendid, and Ella Moss, following their acquisition by Delta Gali. She held this position for seven months, leaving in May 2017. [6] [7]
In October 2017, Schneider became president and chief executive officer of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, where she served until August 2025. [8] [9]
Schneider is the mother of two daughters. [10]