Who Is Susie Tompkins Buell
Susie Tompkins Buell is a San Francisco-based entrepreneur, Democratic donor, and co-founder of The North Face. She built wealth through retail and real estate before becoming a major progressive donor. Her giving focuses on climate, reproductive rights, and electoral politics.
Public filings show she has supported federal and state candidates through PACs and individual contributions. She is a member of the Democracy Alliance and has backed groups such as EMILY's List and the Center for American Progress. Her network connects her to other tech and retail elites in California.
Net Worth and Business Ventures
Estimates of Susie Tompkins Buell's net worth place it in the hundreds of millions, based on her stake in The North Face and real estate holdings. The North Face was acquired by VF Corporation in 2000, and she retained a significant ownership position at the time of the deal. VF Corporation's annual reports and investor filings provide data on the brand's revenue and growth.
Beyond apparel, she has invested in Bay Area real estate and venture-backed startups. She co-founded Esprit Clothing with her ex-husband Doug Tompkins, and the brand's early growth helped build the family's capital base. Details on her current portfolio are limited because she keeps many holdings private.
Political and Philanthropic Influence
Susie Tompkins Buell is a top Democratic donor who has contributed to presidential, senate, and gubernatorial campaigns. Federal Election Commission records show her support for candidates aligned with progressive economic and environmental policies. She has hosted fundraisers and bundled donations for high-profile races.
Her philanthropy includes climate action, women's health, and education. She has funded organizations that back clean energy innovation and voter mobilization. Public data from nonprofit disclosures and campaign finance filings illustrate the scale and focus of her giving over the past decade.