Stephen Hawthornthwaite

About Stephen Hawthornthwaite

Stephen Hawthornthwaite is the Co-Founder and Chairman of Rothy’s, a sustainable lifestyle brand transforming recycled materials into modern shoes and accessories for all. Together with Co-Founder Roth Martin, he was inspired to bring the vision of an innovative, earth-conscious brand to life. In 2016, Stephen and Roth established a fully owned and operated factory in China, which allows them to set best-in-class sustainable manufacturing standards. Along with owning their supply chain—a rare feat in the industry—they also developed a 3D knitting production process that significantly reduces waste. Rothy\'s is constantly optimizing its sustainable practices and materials, and is well known for its signature thread, which is spun from plastic water bottles. In March 2021, Rothy’s set its most ambitious sustainability goal to date—achieving circular production within the next three years. Going beyond women\'s footwear, Rothy\'s recently expanded into the men\'s category with the launch of two timeless styles: The RS01 Sneaker and The Driving Loafer. Intentionally designed with an artisanal level of detail, Rothy\'s Men\'s are crafted for exceptional comfort and almost zero waste. Extending its commitment to material innovation, Rothy\'s also recently introduced The Bag Collection. Bags by Rothy’s are carefully crafted using a brand new material—marine plastic. Sourced within 30 miles of coastal environments, marine plastic is blended with Rothy’s signature thread to create remarkable styles that are responsibly manufactured. Stephen has a longstanding passion for well-designed and well-made consumer goods. In co-founding Rothy’s, he was able to merge his personal interests with his professional experience. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, Stephen spent almost 20 years advising on M&A transactions and evaluating investment opportunities in both investment banking and corporate development. He focused in particular on the internet, digital media, e-commerce and consumer sectors before taking the leap into sustainable Rothy’s is transforming eco-friendly materials into beautiful, sustainable products made for life on the go. Sound right up your alley? Check out the careers page and join this tight-knit crew.

Experience

1. Co-founder Chairman, Board of Directors

   Rothy's

   Mar 2012 — Present

Education

• Duke University

  BA, Political Science and Government

  1988 — 1992

• Wake Forest University School of Law

  Juris Doctor

  1993 — 1996

Skills

• Lbo
• Strategic Partnerships
• Strategy
• E-Commerce
• Private Placements
• Investments
• Restructuring
• Investment Banking
• Corporate Finance
• Management
• Valuation
• Due Diligence
• Private Equity
• Corporate Development
• Equities
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Entrepreneurship
• M&a Experience
• Mergers
• Start-Ups
• Venture Capital