Unspun has appointed former Athleta and All Yoga executive Chris Blakeslee as its first independent Board Member.
Blakeslee, most recently the president and CEO of Athleta and an advisor to the company until later this fall, brings nearly 15 years of leadership experience in the apparel industry. His previous roles include president of Alo Yoga and its sister brand Bella + Canvas, as well as senior positions in operations, supply chain, sales, and sourcing at Alphabroder.
Blakeslee joins Board members Beth Esponnette (Unspun co-founder), Walden Lam (Unspun co-founder), Kevin Martin (Unspun CEO), Milo Werner (DCVC), Shuo Yang (Lowercarbon Capital), and Duncan Turner (SOSV and Hax).
Unspun, a U.S.-founded and B Corp-certified tech company, has reportedly developed a low-waste production solution for the apparel industry that enables local manufacturing and reduces supply chain length. Its proprietary 3D weaving technology, Vega, is said to “transform yarn into garments within minutes,” according to a company media release. The company said its most notable brand partners include Walmart and Decathlon.
“I am honored to join Unspun’s Board as its first independent director,” said Blakeslee. “Unspun’s technology has the potential to transform the speed at which brands bring products to market, while lowering costs and mitigating global supply chain risks. The company’s Vega technology is among the most compelling innovations I’ve encountered, and I’m excited to help bring its vision and impact to life.”
Unspun Co-Founder Beth Esponnette added, “From Alo Yoga to Bella + Canvas to Athleta, Chris has shaped the activewear industry and knows what it takes to scale innovation across both startups and global brands. His strategic sense of what brands need and what customers want will help ensure Unspun delivers its technology at impact and scale. Chris is exactly the kind of leader we want Unspun to attract.”
Image courtesy Unspun
