In a world where the journey of a business leader often starts and ends with the bottom line, Steph Korey stands out as a visionary who blends entrepreneurship with a deeper, more humane approach to leadership. As the co-founder of Away, a brand that revolutionized the luggage industry, Korey’s story is not just one of professional triumph but of personal growth, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference.
Early Life and Formative Years
Steph Korey was born and raised in the vibrant city of New York. From an early age, she exhibited a keen interest in design and entrepreneurship, influenced by a family that valued creativity and hard work. Her parents, both of whom had careers in creative fields, encouraged her to pursue her passions. Korey’s formative years were characterized by a blend of academic excellence and extracurricular involvement, setting the stage for her future successes.
Her academic journey began at the University of Pennsylvania, where she majored in International Relations. This background provided her with a solid foundation in global affairs and business principles, skills that would later prove invaluable in her entrepreneurial ventures. During her college years, Korey was actively involved in various student organizations, including the Penn Entrepreneurs Network, where she honed her business acumen and leadership skills.
The Birth of Away
After graduating from Penn, Korey entered the corporate world with positions at notable companies like Warby Parker and Gilt Groupe. These roles allowed her to gain critical insights into the workings of successful consumer-facing businesses. However, it was her stint at Warby Parker that would profoundly influence her approach to business and entrepreneurship. The company’s innovative direct-to-consumer model and commitment to social responsibility left a lasting impression on Korey.
In 2015, Korey decided it was time to create something of her own. She co-founded Away, a company that would go on to redefine the travel experience. The idea for Away was born out of Korey’s frustration with the lack of stylish, functional, and affordable luggage options available. Together with her co-founder, Jen Rubio, Korey set out to create a brand that would address these gaps in the market.
From the outset, Away was designed to be more than just a luggage company. Korey and Rubio envisioned a brand that combined high-quality materials with thoughtful design, creating products that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The company’s flagship product, the “Bigger Carry-On,” quickly became a sensation, praised for its sleek design and practical features, such as a built-in battery for charging electronic devices.
Away’s success was not just due to its innovative products but also to its savvy marketing strategy. The brand leveraged social media to connect with a new generation of travelers, building a community around the joys and challenges of modern travel. Korey and Rubio’s emphasis on transparency and customer engagement helped to foster a loyal customer base, setting Away apart from traditional luggage brands.
Navigating Challenges and Growth
Like any entrepreneurial journey, the road to success was not without its obstacles. Away faced several challenges, including intense competition, supply chain issues, and the inevitable growing pains associated with scaling a startup. Korey and Rubio were transparent about these challenges, using them as opportunities to learn and adapt.
One notable challenge was managing the rapid growth of the company. As Away expanded its product line and entered new markets, maintaining the same level of quality and customer service became increasingly complex. Korey and her team worked tirelessly to address these issues, implementing new systems and processes to ensure that the company’s growth did not come at the expense of its core values.
Korey’s leadership was instrumental in navigating these challenges. She was known for her hands-on approach and willingness to get involved in every aspect of the business. Whether it was negotiating with suppliers, refining product designs, or engaging with customers, Korey’s dedication to the company was evident.
The Impact of Away
Away’s impact extends beyond its innovative products. The company has made a significant contribution to the travel industry by setting new standards for what consumers expect from their luggage. By focusing on design, functionality, and customer experience, Away has raised the bar for competitors and reshaped the market.
Moreover, Away has been a trailblazer in integrating social responsibility into its business model. The company has been involved in various philanthropic initiatives, including partnerships with organizations that support global travel and education. Korey and Rubio have used their platform to advocate for causes they care about, demonstrating that business success can go hand in hand with social impact.
One of Away’s most notable initiatives is its “The Away Foundation,” which aims to support and empower underserved communities through travel and education. This foundation reflects Korey’s commitment to making a positive difference in the world and underscores her belief that business can be a force for good.
Personal Growth and Leadership Style
Steph Korey’s journey is as much about personal growth as it is about professional achievement. Her leadership style is characterized by a deep sense of empathy, a commitment to transparency, and a focus on fostering a positive company culture. Korey believes that the success of a business is intrinsically linked to the well-being of its employees and customers.
Korey is known for her approachable and inclusive leadership style. She values open communication and encourages her team to share their ideas and feedback. This collaborative approach not only fosters innovation but also helps to create a supportive and dynamic work environment.
Her commitment to personal development is also evident in her willingness to learn from her experiences and those of others. Korey regularly engages with mentors and peers, seeking advice and insights to continuously improve her leadership skills. This growth mindset has been a key factor in her ability to navigate the complexities of running a successful business.
Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Aspirations
As Steph Korey continues to lead Away, her focus remains on expanding the brand’s impact and exploring new opportunities for growth. The company is constantly innovating, with new product lines and enhancements designed to meet the evolving needs of modern travelers.
Korey is also passionate about exploring new ways to use her platform for positive change. She is committed to deepening Away’s involvement in social and environmental causes, ensuring that the company continues to make a meaningful difference in the world.
In addition to her work with Away, Korey is also an advocate for women in entrepreneurship. She actively supports initiatives that promote gender equality and empower women in business. Her dedication to these causes reflects her belief in the importance of creating opportunities for others and fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.
Conclusion
Steph Korey’s journey from a young entrepreneur with a vision to a leading figure in the travel industry is a testament to her ingenuity, resilience, and commitment to making a difference. Her story is one of overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and leading with purpose. As she continues to innovate and inspire, Korey remains a shining example of how business success can be achieved through a combination of creativity, empathy, and a dedication to positive change.
In a world where business leaders are often measured by their financial success alone, Steph Korey stands out for her holistic approach to leadership. Her impact extends beyond the products she creates, touching the lives of her customers, employees, and the broader community. As she looks to the future, there is no doubt that Steph Korey will continue to make waves in the business world, leaving a lasting legacy of innovation, compassion, and positive change.
