Sara Nathanson
In this feature of DRVN Stories, we share the remarkable journey of Sara Nathanson, Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Aritzia. A Vancouver-bred leader, Sara has made a lasting impact on her community, helping shape the careers of thousands. In Episode 4 of DRVN – The Podcast, hosted by Anne Riesling, Sara dives deep into her professional evolution, her leadership philosophy, and the pivotal experiences that have defined her path.
From Athlete to Leader: Early Lessons in Confidence
Growing up in a close-knit family as one of five children, Sara’s early years were filled with healthy competition, resilience, and a deep sense of identity. With three older brothers and a younger sister, she learned the value of persistence, finding her voice, and building confidence, qualities that would later define her leadership.
Sports quickly became an integral part of her life, igniting a passion that extended beyond the field. “What started as a simple invite from a friend to join a soccer team turned into something much bigger—it became a foundation for how I approached teamwork, leadership, and perseverance,” she recalls.
From an early age, Sara learned that success wasn’t just about individual performance, it was about uplifting those around her. “I was always competitive, but sports taught me that leadership isn’t about being the best player. It’s about bringing out the best in others,” she shares. This lesson remains central to her philosophy at Aritzia, where she has spent her career building a culture that values collaboration and personal growth.
A Journey of Growth at Aritzia
Sara’s career at Aritzia began humbly, working part-time in the retail space. What seemed like a temporary role quickly became a career-defining chapter.
"Aritzia made sense to me, and I figured out really quickly, OK, I know what they want me to do, so that’s what I’m going to focus on," she explains. With her natural drive and adaptability, she advanced rapidly, drawn to Aritzia’s unique culture—where personal development is encouraged, effort is recognized, and leadership is built from within. Each new role presented challenges, but her openness to learning and her ability to adapt to the company’s evolving needs allowed her to rise as a key leader.
Now, as Vice President of Talent Acquisition, Sara’s leadership is rooted in a people-first approach. “We are able to be successful because we allow people to focus and be exceptional at their scope. Doing what you're great at and focusing on that is what we value most,” she says. Aritzia’s culture is built on competitiveness with the marketplace, but not with each other. “There’s enough space for everybody, and that’s what makes our environment so unique,” she notes.
Throughout her journey, she has been surrounded by influential female leaders who have inspired her along the way. “The women that I get to look up to—primarily women—is really a wonderful example of what is possible,” she reflects.
Balancing Career, Motherhood, and Relationships
Beyond her career, Sara is a devoted wife and mother. She openly shares the challenges and joys of balancing leadership with family life, especially after becoming a mother later in life.
“Having Freddie changed things—it’s a whole new element. You’re both looking at another human and have to be conscious about continuing to look at each other too,” she shares.
She credits gratitude as a key factor in maintaining a strong marriage and partnership. “One of the things I try to do is be more overtly grateful for the things my husband does because he does so many wonderful things,” she says. Despite the inevitable shifts that come with parenthood, Sara embraces each stage of life with confidence and appreciation. “I don’t feel a yearning for what I might’ve missed—I loved life before, and now I love this stage even more,” she says.
Empowering Others: A Leadership Philosophy
Sara believes that authenticity is the foundation of strong leadership. “People do their best work when they feel understood and supported,” she shares. Her leadership style focuses on building trust, fostering real connections, and creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to bring their whole selves to work.
She credits much of her leadership approach to her mentors, including Aritzia’s CEO, Jennifer Wong. “Jennifer always cuts through the noise and focuses on what truly matters. I leave conversations with her feeling energized and inspired,” Sara says.
Sara also acknowledges the impact of Pippa Morgan, Aritzia’s Head of Retail, in shaping her leadership style. “Pippa has shown me the importance of creating space for others’ ideas and believing in the collective strength of the team,” she shares.
Advice for Career Transitions and Building Confidence
For those navigating career transitions, Sara stresses the importance of being open to new experiences and clear on your goals. “You have to actively seek out roles that allow you to contribute in a way that feels meaningful. Move toward something that excites and motivates you, not just away from something that doesn’t,” she advises. She believes that confidence comes from embracing your unique journey and pushing beyond comfort zones. Her own career has been defined by a willingness to take on new challenges and grow alongside Aritzia.
Embracing Uniqueness and Personal Growth
As Sara continues to navigate her multifaceted life, she remains focused on the values that have shaped her journey: teamwork, humility, and gratitude. Her story is a powerful reminder that success is not measured by individual achievements alone, but by the impact we make on others. “I’ve learned to worry less about the climb and more about how I can contribute,” she reflects.
Through her career at Aritzia, her dedication to family, and her people-first leadership, Sara embodies the essence of DRVN—resilience, authenticity, and a deep commitment to uplifting those around her.
