Get to know Keith Hill, NOIR Co-Lead

In honor of Black History Month, Madewell and our family of brands at J.Crew Group (JCG) are excited to highlight the leaders of the?NOIR Associate Impact Group (AIG).

NOIR’s purpose is to create a safe space for associate connection, education, partnership, and activation. Through impactful conversations and community building initiatives—NOIR?aims to contribute to the professional and personal development of group members while connecting and amplifying the contributions of Black associates across the company along with allies who wish to join our efforts.

Meet Keith Hill, J.Crew Factory Store Director and NOIR Co-Lead for Stores. Read on to learn more his journey to JCG, his hopes for NOIR and how he honors Black History Month.

Q: What made you join the team at JCG?

KH: I've been a big fan of J.Crew for a long time and it has always?been one of my favorite retailers. I was away from retail for almost 6 years, so when I decided to go back to retail, I knew I wanted to be with a company that I felt passionate?about. After meeting with Alison, my Store Director at the time, and Darrell Reyes , the Southwest DM for Factory, I knew this was the place for me.

Q: What made you raise your hand to be the Co-Lead for?Noir? What does?Noir?mean to you?

KH: Most of my career I have been one of few Black people or the only Black person working in my location. It can be very isolating to feel that no one fully understands you or where you're coming from. That experience has motivated me to say yes to any opportunity that allows me to help connect others to the larger work community, especially other Black people in the retail world.

Q: How do you envision?Noir?will impact the Stores? What are you most excited about in the upcoming year?

KH: I see NOIR impacting the Stores by creating connection and community for Black associates and allies. Having the chance to meet monthly and connect with people across the country and be able relate to one another culturally and career wise is beautiful and I'm excited we get to do that with NOIR. ?I'm excited to see NOIR grow and to see how we are able to tap into each other's gifts to make a positive impact at JCG.

Q: What are your plans to honor and celebrate Black History Month?

KH: I have a 2-year-old son and I love reading him books that celebrate black culture, history and #blackboyjoy. I enjoy finding new people to learn about and how they contributed to our history and culture, and I do this by reading and watching movies. Finally, I like to support black owned businesses and restaurants (not just for BHM).