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David Jaffe: Ascena Retail Group CEO on Scaling Family Business, Investing, and His Next Chapter
Jul 24, 2024
David Jaffe, a retail titan and philanthropist, transformed Dressbarn into a $7 billion success story. In this engaging conversation, he shares his experiences of scaling a family business and the challenges of ensuring a smooth succession. Jaffe discusses his transition from corporate leadership to impactful philanthropy, emphasizing the significance of aligning career choices with personal passions. He delves into the emotional journey post-retirement, the value of mentorship, and the importance of addressing social issues like climate change through strategic initiatives.
51:03
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Quick takeaways
- David Jaffe emphasized the significance of personal values and legacy in guiding effective philanthropic initiatives after transitioning from a successful retail career.
- He highlighted the importance of mentorship and collaboration in both family business dynamics and nonprofit work to maximize impact.
Deep dives
Transition from Retail to Philanthropy
David Jaffe's remarkable career began with his family's Dress Barn, where he joined in 1992 and played a crucial role in expanding the business to achieve $7 billion in annual revenue. After leading the company through significant growth and numerous acquisitions, he transitioned away from the retail sector in 2019 to focus on philanthropy. His personal experiences, particularly his children's severe food allergies, ignited his passion for social change and motivated him to lead initiatives aimed at improving food allergy research and education. Jaffe highlights the importance of integrating personal values and family legacies into philanthropic endeavors, which has guided his impactful transition.
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