Stephanie Korey

Stephanie Korey, also known as Steph Korey Goodwin, is a prominent entrepreneur best known as the co-founder and former CEO of the luggage brand Away. She co-founded Away in 2015 alongside Jen Rubio, aiming to disrupt the luggage market by offering stylish, functional travel bags directly to consumers. Under her leadership, Away achieved significant milestones, including a valuation of $1.4 billion and expansion into 26 countries by 2020.123

Background and Career

Korey graduated from Brown University with a B.A. in International Relations and later earned an MBA from Columbia Business School. Before founding Away, she held a key position at Warby Parker, where she was responsible for building the supply chain team, which provided her with valuable experience in managing product development and sourcing.23

Achievements at Away

During her tenure as CEO from 2015 to 2020, Korey led Away through rapid growth, raising $156 million in funding and establishing the brand as a leader in the travel accessories market. The company became known for its innovative luggage products, which included features like built-in charging ports for electronic devices.13 However, her leadership style has been criticized; reports emerged of a toxic work environment characterized by high expectations and a lack of support for employees.46

Recent Ventures

After stepping down as CEO in 2020 amid controversy regarding workplace culture, Korey has continued her entrepreneurial journey. In 2024, she co-founded Charmspring, a children's developmental brand designed to help families manage routines and foster learning.25 She remains active as an angel investor, focusing on supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs.3

Korey's influence extends beyond her business ventures; she has been recognized in lists such as Fortune's 40 Under 40 and Forbes' 30 Under 30 for her contributions to entrepreneurship and innovation in the consumer goods sector.2