Council of Fashion Designers Appointed Interim CEO
The CFDA has selected Hildy Kuryk to lead the organization following the sudden resignation of Steven Kolb.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Fashion
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The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) has named Hildy Kuryk as interim CEO. This leadership transition follows the resignation of longtime leader Steven Kolb on September 18, 2026.
Why it matters
The change in leadership follows a high-profile controversy involving Steven Kolb, who was recorded restraining protesters at a fashion show earlier in September. The CFDA is now focused on stabilizing its operations while initiating a search for a permanent executive.
Hildy Kuryk brings 15 years of previous experience in politics and a four-year tenure as executive director of communications for Vogue. The search for a permanent replacement is projected to last between three to six months.
The players
Hildy Kuryk
She is the newly appointed interim CEO of the CFDA who previously served as executive director of communications for Vogue and co-founded Artemis Strategies.
Steven Kolb
He is the former CEO of the CFDA who resigned his position following a public incident involving the physical restraint of protesters.
Council of Fashion Designers of America
This is a non-profit trade association that represents over 450 of America's foremost womenswear, menswear, jewelry, and accessory designers.
Karen Harvey Consulting Group
This is an executive search and talent advisory firm that has been engaged to manage the search for a new permanent CEO.
The details
Hildy Kuryk has been tasked with serving as a liaison between the CFDA staff and its board during this interim period. The organization has retained the Karen Harvey Consulting Group to facilitate the recruitment of a permanent chief executive, a role that Kuryk is not seeking.
Timeline
September 13, 2026: Steven Kolb was filmed restraining protesters at the COS show.
September 18, 2026: Steven Kolb officially resigned as CEO of the CFDA.
September 28, 2026: The CFDA announced the appointment of Hildy Kuryk as interim CEO.
Culture Shift
The sudden leadership change at the CFDA reflects the growing pressure on fashion industry executives to maintain decorum during increasingly volatile public events. This transition marks a departure from traditional internal successions as the organization seeks external consultancy to navigate reputational challenges.
For industry professionals and stakeholders, the leadership change may affect upcoming strategic initiatives and the management of major events like New York Fashion Week. Daily operations for the organization are expected to continue under the new interim structure during the transition period.
The takeaway
The appointment of Hildy Kuryk provides a temporary bridge for the CFDA as it manages the fallout from recent public controversies. Organizations facing executive vacancies should prioritize clear communication to ensure staff stability during search processes.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership changes, visit the Fashion section.
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