How Leaders Lead with David Novak

#264: Bracken Darrell, CEO of VF Corporation – Good design can make anything better

16 snips
Nov 6, 2025
Bracken Darrell, CEO of VF Corporation, has turned around iconic brands like Old Spice and Logitech. In this engaging discussion, he explores how design can elevate not just products but entire cultures. Bracken shares his philosophy on leadership, emphasizing the importance of constant growth and open feedback. He reveals the unique strategies behind revitalizing brands like The North Face and Vans, and even touches on his own childhood lessons. Plus, he discusses the role of AI in shaping the future of leadership and customer experience.
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ADVICE

Reinvent Yourself Regularly

  • Rebuild yourself regularly by 'firing' and rehiring yourself to stay fresh and objective.
  • Treat each year as a new contract and be willing to undo your past decisions to avoid autopilot leadership.
ADVICE

Be Explicit With Feedback And Board Work

  • Give more explicit, timely feedback instead of relying on intuition alone.
  • Spend deliberate time with your board so they feel informed and take ownership of decisions.
ANECDOTE

Old Spice Turnaround Playbook

  • At Old Spice Bracken synchronized pricing, product, cost cuts and advertising to reverse decline.
  • A simple, convincing ad plus product and price changes doubled market share and then doubled again.
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