Yolanda Blaize is the Senior Director of Global Sourcing and Development for Ralph Lauren, the iconic American clothing brand worth about $8 billion.
Under Yolanda’s direction, her team is charged with upholding the fashion empire’s timeless heritage whilst determining fabrics and trims to be featured in successive seasons. Her leadership spans the brand’s women’s and children’s line, where she oversees concepts, development, and production. With over 23 years at Ralph Lauren, Yolanda travels the world in pursuit of the perfect fabric for upcoming collections. Her craft has taken her to markets in Asia, Europe, and across the Americas including Hong Kong, China, Korea, Japan, Vietnam, Philippines, Turkey, India, Bangladesh, Peru, Guatemala, and Bolivia.
After graduating with a broadcast journalism degree, Blaize envisioned a career as a broadcaster and worked for Major League Baseball creating World Series highlight videos and clips for “This Week in Baseball.” She then left broadcasting to pursue her first love—fashion—with Ralph Lauren, and within a short period, was able to distinguish herself at the global fashion and apparel powerhouse, ascending the corporate ladder from Production Assistant to Senior Director.
Yolanda’s keen eye, strong work ethic, visionary approach to leadership, and great talent have served her well throughout her career. When she is not traveling the world, Yolanda enjoys spending time with her adorable puppy, Major.