When Jenny Ming entered San Jose State University as a Home Economics student, I doubt she would have imagined her future self named as one of Fortune Magazine’s top 50 Most Powerful Women in American Business. Jenny’s accomplishments are many, as Founding President of Old Navy, to Operating Partner at Advent International private equity firm to CEO of Charlotte Russe. She has managed to successfully balance responsibility with humor, and home-making with business-building. To this I can attest personally, having worked at Old Navy during Jenny’s presidency. To me, Jenny is the ultimate role model, from her teachings at work, about strategy, innovation and leadership, to the lessons she shared in the broader context. Jenny quoted to a SJSU graduating class, ”All through my life… I’ve found that satisfaction and happiness are not about companies, or titles, or income. Instead, my happiness comes from learning and growing, finding what’s meaningful to me, and finding people who are willing to teach me.” Meet our favorite Chief and Chef, Mother and Mentor, our MUSE, Jenny Ming.
What’s in your make-up bag?
Tatcha Aburatorigami blotting paper, Innisfree concealer, Opcon-A eye drops, Philosophy: hope in a stick lip balm and my favorite lipstick…Nars Funny Face.
What do you wear on a fat day?
Fabulous jewelry.
What’s the most treasured item in your wardrobe?
A vintage, black, hand-embroidered Qipao that my mother-in-law wore at her own wedding.
You’re the fashion police for a day, what do you ban?
Nail art.
Have you ever worn anything you now regret?
Of course!
How high is too high a heel?
Anything you can’t walk in would be too high.
How old is too old for jeans?
Never too old.
If you could live in any other time for its fashion, when would you choose?
1940s…Dior please.
Can you judge a book by its cover?
No.
What are your bad habits?
Checking emails before I get out of bed.
What’s your greatest extravagance?
Family vacations.
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Never be complacent and always strive to learn more.
What’s your favorite smell?
Something baking in the oven.
What’s your idea of a great holiday?
Any place with my family.
What are you most proud of?
My three, very grounded kids.
What is your pure bliss?
Spending a weekend at our Sonoma vineyard with no plans.
Who or what would you like to be reincarnated as in your next life?
A skinnier version of myself.
If you could meet someone from history who would it be?
Coco Chanel.
Yes or no to a nip and a tuck?
Never say never.
Do you have a favorite KOTUR bag?
JB Renna Snakeskin minaudiere.
How would you like to be remembered?
I was able to balance having a wonderful family and a very rewarding career.