Katy Spillers

When Spillers began guiding corporate mergers and acquisitions 17 years ago, she worked primarily with businesses led by Caucasian males. But these days, most of her clients are female-led businesses that focus on inclusivity, she said.

"They are powerhouse female CEOs that are building mission-driven brands that are really changing the narrative for consumers," Spillers said. "I think it's amazing to help represent these female-owned businesses to transact at amazing valuations ... with top private equity firms or strategic buyers."

In April 2021, Spillers represented Skims Body Inc., Kim Kardashian's shapewear company, in a financing round that brought in $154 million and boosted the brand's value to $1.6 billion. This past February, she represented Skims in a $240 million financing round that doubled the company's value to $3.2 billion.

"I call it the Kardashian effect," Spillers said.

Other clients include the popular denim and apparel company Good American LLC, co-owned by Khloé Kardashian, and Safely, Kris Jenner's cleaning products brand. Spillers attributes the companies' success in part to the family members' ability to attract investors.

Another factor is the leadership and co-ownership of all three companies by two more of Spillers' clients, the highly successful fashion entrepreneurs, Jens and Emma Grede. "I've known Jens and Emma forever," she said.

Because of her long experience with them and with their frequent investors, she and they can "execute and build a team to make sure that we sign, close and fund a deal in record time."

Spillers also worked with Jens Grede and NFL quarterback Tom Brady in the founding of menswear company B Brand Apparel LLC and its brand Brady. Spillers assisted with the company's financing, negotiated Brady's participation and continues to provide legal advice.

Other clients include model Karlie Kloss, who recently purchased W Magazine and the very male-oriented digital media company Barstool Sports, which is now led by Erica Nardini, "this incredible female CEO who I think is really changing the narrative of that business," Spillers said.

- Don DeBenedictis