Jay Schottenstein
In his role as Chairman of the Board for American Signature Inc., Jay Schottenstein plays a key leadership role in the companyβs Value City Furniture, Designer Looks and American Signature Furniture brands.
Jay & the Evolution of American Signature
Established in 2002, American Signature Inc. continues the long line of Schottenstein family businesses that began in 1917. Working alongside his son, Jonathan Schottenstein, President of American Signature Inc., Jay upholds the family tradition begun by his grandfather, Ephraim Schottenstein, when he first sold goods from a pushcart in Columbus, Ohio. That business evolved into Schottenstein Department Stores and the furniture part of those stores expanded into a chain of furniture stores called Value City Furniture.
By the 1970s, Value City had 28 stores in four states with Jayβs father, Jerome Schottenstein, at the helm. Upon graduating from Indiana University Bloomington in 1976, Jay joined Value City Furniture and became President in the 1980s. When Jerome died in 1992, Jay took over as CEO and continued growing the business. The American Signature Furniture brand was established in 1995 and in 2002 American Signature Inc. became the parent company of both Value City Furniture and American Signature Furniture, as well as the Designer Looks brand featured at both retailers.
In 2009, Jonathan became the next generation of Schottensteins to run the family furniture business when he was named President. Today, there are upwards of 120 stores under the American Signature Inc. umbrella and Jay helps guide the company as Chairman.
Career and Philanthropy
Along with his role at American Signature Inc., Jay has leadership roles at several other companies. In the retail and apparel industry, he is the CEO and Chairman of American Eagle Outfitters Inc., which also includes Aerie; the Chairman of Designer Brands Inc., which includes Designer Shoe Warehouse; and Chairman of Schottenstein Stores Corporation. His business-to-business roles include a Chairman position with Schottenstein Property Group and he is the CEO and Chairman of SB360 Capital Partners.
Beyond continuing the family business legacy, Jay also furthers the family tradition of giving back. He and his wife Jeanie, along with their three children, are actively involved in supporting causes ranging from medical research and social services to education and culture. Jay brings his passion for philanthropy to his professional leadership roles as well, ensuring that giving back is a company value.
