Julie Wainwright is a trailblazing entrepreneur, e-commerce innovator, and seasoned C-suite executive whose career spans more than 25 years. Best known as the founder of The RealReal, the premier online marketplace for authenticated luxury goods, and Ahara, a groundbreaking personalized nutrition company, Julie has consistently redefined industries with her visionary leadership and commitment to excellence.
Julie’s career began at Clorox, where she honed her skills in brand management before transitioning to the technology and e-commerce sectors. As CEO of Berkeley Systems, she transformed the company into a leader in interactive entertainment. She later became CEO of Reel.com, leading it to a $100 million acquisition by Hollywood Video. In the early 2000s, Julie helmed Pets.com, where she gained invaluable lessons on resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit despite the company’s challenges during the dot-com era.
In 2011, Julie founded The RealReal, revolutionizing the luxury goods market with a commitment to sustainability and circular fashion. Under her leadership, the company grew to become the first luxury resale member of the UN Climate Change’s Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action. In 2019, Julie made history as the 23rd woman to take a company public, solidifying her legacy as a pioneering business leader. She stepped down as CEO in 2022 to focus on new ventures and speaking engagements.
Julie’s latest endeavor, Ahara, merges technology, nutrition science, and data analytics to deliver personalized health solutions. Co-founded in 2022 with Dr. Melina Jampolis, Ahara reflects Julie’s dedication to innovation and her passion for improving health outcomes through food-first strategies.
Throughout her career, Julie has received numerous accolades, including recognition on Forbes’ 50 Over 50 and Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business lists. Her insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and overcoming adversity have made her a sought-after speaker for events including Forbes Women’s Summit, Vanity Fair, Stanford University, and more.
Julie’s keynotes inspire audiences with lessons from her journey—turning failures into stepping stones, fostering high-performance cultures, and empowering entrepreneurs. Whether addressing corporate teams, aspiring business leaders, or global audiences, Julie delivers actionable strategies infused with authenticity and wisdom.


