Sporty & Rich CEO Obadia Steps Down, Founder Takes Helm

Sporty & Rich has announced the departure of its CEO, Obadia, who is leaving to “pursue new projects.” This transition marks a significant shift for the lifestyle brand, which has gained prominence in the fashion industry since its inception. Following Obadia’s exit, the company will be led by its founder, Emily Oberg, who has been integral to the brand’s development since its early days.

Obadia joined Sporty & Rich in 2018, taking charge of a range of operations including design, collection development, production, and overall brand strategy. Under his leadership, the brand expanded to over 200 wholesale accounts and opened flagship stores in New York, Los Angeles, Shanghai, and Seoul. Additionally, he facilitated high-profile collaborations with major names like Adidas and Lacoste, as well as luxury hotels such as Le Bristol and Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.

In a statement, Obadia expressed gratitude for his partnership with Oberg, stating, “It was a pleasure for me to work together with Emily Oberg the last seven years and I’m forever grateful for this partnership. She has a very unique talent and I’m sure she will lead Sporty & Rich to the next phase in the early future.”

Oberg, originally from Calgary, Alberta, moved to New York in 2015 to work at Complex Magazine. During her time there, she began conceptualizing Sporty & Rich, initially starting as a mood board that gained traction through an Instagram account. The brand has since evolved into a comprehensive label offering vintage-inspired sportswear for women, men, and children, spanning apparel, accessories, footwear, and beauty products.

As Sporty & Rich enters this new chapter under Oberg’s guidance, the industry will be watching closely to see how the brand continues to innovate and expand its offerings. Oberg’s unique vision and connection to the brand’s roots may well guide Sporty & Rich into its next phase of growth.

The leadership change reflects broader trends within the fashion industry, where founders are increasingly reclaiming control of their brands after periods of external management. With Oberg at the helm, Sporty & Rich is poised to maintain its momentum in a competitive marketplace.