The appointment brings consumer technology and digital product expertise to the luxury resale platform as it pursues growth and wider use of AI.
The RealReal has appointed Sharmistha “Shar” Dubey, the former chief executive of Match Group, to its board of directors. Announced on 5 November, the appointment took effect on 3 November 2026, adding experience in digital product development and consumer engagement to the luxury consignment business.
Dubey brings more than two decades of leadership experience in technology and global consumer businesses. As chief executive of Match Group, she oversaw a portfolio including Tinder, Hinge, Match and OkCupid. Her earlier positions included president of Match Group, chief operating officer of Tinder and chief product officer of Match and Princeton Review. She currently chairs the board of Fortive Corporation and serves as a director of Naspers and Prosus.
The appointment reflects the capabilities The RealReal is seeking as it develops its technology-driven resale model. President and chief executive Rati Sahi Levesque cited Dubey’s experience in digital innovation, consumer engagement and global growth, linking it to the company’s ambitions to expand its use of AI.
The RealReal combines expert-led authentication with AI and proprietary technology to support pricing, operations and the customer experience. Its full-service consignment model spans fashion, fine jewellery, watches, art and home, requiring the business to manage both the supply of individual items and demand from buyers. Dubey brings experience in developing consumer platforms and scaling digital businesses to the board’s oversight of that model.
According to the company, The RealReal has a community of 45 million members and has sold more than 55 million items, accumulating 15 years of proprietary data. Those figures provide context for its technology ambitions, although the appointment announcement did not disclose a new AI programme or operational targets.
Dubey described the company as operating “at the intersection of luxury, technology and the circular economy” and said she would work with Levesque and the leadership team to support growth and long-term value. Board chair Karen Katz highlighted her strategic perspective and commitment to governance as the company enters its next stage of development.
