Fashion Council CEO Steven Kolb Resigns After Restraining Protesters

Steven Kolb, the longtime chief executive of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, announced Friday he is stepping down after two decades leading the trade organization. His departure comes days after he was filmed physically restraining two protesters at a runway show.

Kolb's resignation follows an incident on Sunday where he was seen covering the mouths of two employees from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) and restraining them. The altercation occurred during a runway show for Cos, a brand owned by H&M. Kolb later apologized for his actions and had announced he was taking a leave of absence pending an investigation.

PETA had planned to meet with Kolb to discuss ending the use of wool and animal skins in clothing. The organization initially considered filing a police report but later decided against it. A PETA representative stated the group still intends to meet with Kolb and hopes for industry-wide changes to prevent animal cruelty.

The CFDA issued a statement expressing respect for Kolb's decision and gratitude for his leadership. Kolb is credited with previously helping to ban fur from runway shows on the CFDA schedule.