Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert on Growth, Profitability, and Leadership

At the Chicago Economic Club, Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert discusses how the company approaches environmental activism, business growth, and profitability. He also considers how leaders can define success beyond share prices and short-term financial results.

- Leadership examples, including Costco’s response to changing cultural expectations
- Growth and profitability as measures of business progress, employee support, and reinvestment
- Company scale, long-term independence, and the effects of short-term financial incentives

For business leaders and viewers interested in corporate responsibility, the conversation offers perspectives to consider when assessing business goals and leadership priorities. Use the topics discussed to reflect on which measures of success fit your organization’s values and long-term plans.