Anna Wintour’s trusted aide named CFDA interim CEO amid shake‑up

**Hildy Kuryk Named Interim CEO of CFDA Amid Anna Wintour’s Growing Influence**

On Monday the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) announced that Hildy Kuryk will serve as interim chief executive officer. The vacancy opened last week when “Stone Cold” Steven Kolb stepped down after physically restraining protesters at a Fashion Week show.

Kuryk’s appointment follows her long tenure as executive director of communications from 2013 to 2017.

Kuryk is also the founder of Artemis Strategies, a consultancy that works with Conde Nast and The Met, where Anna Wintour holds significant sway. Her ties to Wintour and her experience on Seventh Avenue positioned her as a natural choice for the role.

Earlier this year, Wintour’s decision to name John Galliano as Met Gala headliner sparked controversy when Galliano withdrew amid backlash.

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## Background & Context

The CFDA, which curates the Fashion Week calendar and awards grants to emerging designers, had been led by Kolb until his sudden resignation. The organization has a history of close collaboration with, most notably on the Fashion Fund, a program that mentors young designers.

Recent joint projects include United Flags of Fashion, where CFDA members redesigned state flags for display at Rockefeller Center.

Anna Wintour’s influence within the industry expanded dramatically after the Galliano incident, prompting speculation that her circle would control the CFDA’s direction. Kuryk’s appointment is seen as a continuation of that trend.

The timing also aligns with Wintour’s leadership role at both and the Met, institutions that frequently partner on fashion initiatives.

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## What People Are Saying

Insiders have expressed mixed reactions to Kuryk’s interim role. One source asked, “[Is it the] Council of Fashion Designers of Anna?” highlighting concerns about Wintour’s reach. Another added that “people are sick” of Wintour lording over the industry.

“It’s another opportunity for and Anna to be running everything,” one fed‑up insider sighed, noting that “the fashion industry is not just Anna. There are so many people with a stake and interest in it.”

Despite the criticism, several commentators praised Kuryk’s reputation. “She’s smart” and a “good executive,” one source said. Another noted that the organization could benefit from someone “from outside” to bring a fresh pair of eyes.

The consensus remains that while Kuryk is respected, many want broader representation in CFDA leadership.

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## What Happens Next

The CFDA has engaged Karen Harvey Consulting Group to identify a long‑term replacement, with a search expected to take three to six months.

An insider emphasized the importance of a wide search: “There are people coveting that job and it behooves them to do a wide search and talk to a lot of people before they name a replacement.” The interim period will allow the organization to evaluate its needs while maintaining continuity.

During Kuryk’s tenure, the CFDA will likely continue its partnership with on existing initiatives such as the Fashion Fund and United Flags of Fashion. These programs aim to support emerging designers and celebrate American culture through collaborative projects.

The long‑term impact of her interim leadership remains to be seen, but industry observers will watch closely how the CFDA balances legacy relationships with calls for broader participation.

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The appointment of Hildy Kuryk as interim CEO signals a moment of transition within the CFDA, a body that sits at the heart of American fashion. Whether this move marks a shift toward greater inclusivity or further consolidation under established power will unfold over the coming months.