Gwen Whiting
About Gwen Whiting
Gwen Whiting embodies an entrepreneur’s spirit with a creative vision and an executive’s talent for leading and growing a global lifestyle brand. Long before sustainability became an inspiring way of life, it was Gwen’s vision in 2004 to create a premium, eco-friendly laundry and home cleaning brand – The Laundress. Without external funding, through Gwen’s tenacity and leadership, The Laundress grew via multi-channel distribution and was acquired by Unilever in 2019. As Founder and President, Gwen oversaw the entire visual brand experience of The Laundress from concept to creation, including product development, branding, and retail design. Gwen’s last mission while serving the brand was to certify The Laundress as a B-corp, committed to purpose and sustainability principles for business as a force for good, with purpose over profit. Prior to cofounding The Laundress, Gwen spent over a decade in fashion, retail, media, and design, including five years as a Senior Designer for Ralph Lauren Home. She holds her Bachelor of Science in Textile Science Apparel Design from Cornell University, where she is actively involved as a board member in Human Ecology, Philanthropic donor and Campaign Leader and the Entrepreneurship Council. Today, Gwen shares her wisdom, insights, and encouragement with students, aspiring entrepreneurs, and established business leaders through thought leadership, one-on-one mentorship, and support of educational and entrepreneurial programs. Gwen is also a member of YPO Global Leadership Community. She feeds her creative spirit with reading, wellness, and global adventures.