What makes a great leader? Lew, Long time CEO of Coach, weighs in

In this episode of question everything, Coach’s longtime CEO Lew Frankfort joins me to share the lifetime of lessons he documents in his new memoir Bagman.

Lew breaks down why an outsider’s perspective can be an advantage, how “magic and logic” shaped Coach, and what scaling a $6 million leather goods company into a $5 billion global lifestyle brand really took: personally and professionally.

2025/12/3 Edited to

... Read moreLeadership is often defined by a combination of unique traits and strategic decision-making. From Lew Frankfort’s journey with Coach, one key leadership quality emerges prominently: the ability to blend “magic and logic.” This approach balances creativity and innovation with practical business acumen, essential for scaling a company effectively. Frankfort emphasizes the advantage of an outsider’s perspective—a quality that allows leaders to challenge norms, envision new possibilities, and drive transformation. In Coach's case, this perspective helped transition the brand from a modest leather goods maker into a globally recognized lifestyle icon with revenues soaring to $5 billion. Moreover, the personal and professional demands of such growth underscore the resilience, adaptability, and vision required from leaders. Frankfort’s memoir, Bagman, delves into these experiences, offering valuable lessons on leadership challenges, strategic growth, and maintaining brand integrity amidst expansion. The highlighted phrase "THE ONE TRAIT EVERY GREAT LEADER HAS" invites reflection on what distinguishes exceptional leaders. While many attributes contribute to effective leadership, the ability to combine emotional intelligence with strategic insight stands out. Authentic connection with teams, clear communication, and fostering innovation are equally vital. Aspiring leaders can learn from Frankfort’s example that building a lasting brand isn’t solely about financial metrics but also about cultivating culture, empowering people, and sustaining vision through evolving markets. The story of Coach’s rise exemplifies how leadership involves continuous learning and embracing both the measurable and intangible aspects of business success.

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