NBA All-Star James Harden took to social media to announce his new position on the board of luxury at Saks Fifth Avenue. As an independent member, the Brooklyn Nets point guard has made a huge investment in the company, bringing in a fresh new set of expertise and perspective to the table.
The NBA superstar approached Saks Fifth Avenue chairman Richard Baker about investing after it was announced in March that the luxury retailer was splitting the stores from the online business, Baker told The Post.
I’m joining @saks as a board member and investor. Honored to be a part of a company that is creating the future of luxury retail. An exciting opportunity to combine my passions: fashion & teaming up with a brand with the potential to lead while making an impact on the community
— James Harden (@JHarden13) June 15, 2021
“I told him we didn’t need any investors,” Baker said. However, the two men began a series of conversations that altered his one of thinking… sort of. “I was impressed with his love of fashion, so I invited him to become an investor on one condition, that he join the board,” Baker continued.
Saks is excited to announce the appointment of @jharden13—nine-time NBA All-Star, Brooklyn Nets guard and entrepreneur—as an independent member of our board and minority investor. pic.twitter.com/Yu3jtUOv7M
— Saks Fifth Avenue (@saks) June 14, 2021
Harden is one of the more fashionable players in the NBA having gained a massive following among the league’s younger fans via social media partnerships.
The nine-time NBA all-star, also has his hands in brands including Therabody, BodyArmor, Art of Sport and the fragrance company Pura, where he serves as creative director. He also has a sneaker and apparel line with Adidas.
“As we work to build this new board, James is an important and valuable addition. With experience in growing businesses and as someone who values self-expression through fashion, I am confident that he will bring a distinct point of view that will help us better deliver for our customers,” Richard Baker, Saks’ executive chairman said in the press release. “His expertise, combined with that of our other board members will enable Saks to further capitalize on the significant growth opportunity within luxury e-commerce.”
Harden will join the six other Saks board members, comprised fully of men, so far including Saks Chief Executive Marc Metrick and Executive Chairman, Richard Baker. Two executives from investor Insight Partners — Deven Parekh and Adam Berger — and Franz-Ferdinand Buerstedde of Rhone Capital, are also on the board.
