In Conversation with Samantha Yeager
Tell us about your background:
I’ve built my career around a deep curiosity for how products are made and brought to market. I began in trim procurement, learning the foundational details that support successful product creation and production. That early experience gave me a strong understanding of materials, vendor relationships, timelines, and the operational discipline required to execute at a high level.
From there, I expanded into product development and project management, taking on broader responsibilities across the product lifecycle. Over time, my role evolved to include oversight of development, sourcing, production, and logistics, allowing me to build a well-rounded expertise across the retail supply chain. I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to a diverse range of brands, including Oscar de la Renta, rag & bone, Calvin Klein, and Edie Parker, gaining experience in both luxury and contemporary markets.
For the past seven years I’ve overseen the full retail supply chain at SoulCycle, managing cross-functional operations from concept through final delivery. My experience spans product development, vendor and factory management, sourcing strategy, production planning, logistics, and operational execution. Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by a passion for building efficient processes, developing strong partnerships, and ensuring products are delivered with quality, consistency, and attention to detail.
What continues to motivate me is the combination of creativity and operations bringing ideas to life while solving complex challenges behind the scenes to make the process seamless and scalable.
What do you wish you’d known when you started out?
The fashion industry can be very old school and while there's real heritage and value in that like all industries there needs to be evolution. Finding the people who can adapt and embrace new perspectives will help you grow in unbelivable ways. I never thought when I was purchasing trims I'd one day be leading implimention of organzational operation systems.
What leadership qualities are important to you?
I believe the best leaders create an environment where people feel heard, supported and encouraged to contribute. Trust is the backbone of all relationships.
How do you define success in your career, and how has that definition evolved over time?
I used to think the more you worked the harder you must be working. Over time, I've realized that's not necessarily true. Now I define success by my impact, optimization and growth. Learning how to utilize better tools, delegate, trust the people around you all helped me redefine my definition of success.
How has networking contributed to your professional growth and success?
Networking brought me to SoulCycle. I met the former VP of Retail long before the business had a place for someone with my background. My growth path over the last seven years has brought me more than I ever would have imagined.
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-yeager-16003625
Instagram: @samoyeager
