Eileen Ford

Eileen Ford (March 25, 1914 – July 10, 2014) was an American businesswoman and modeling agent who co-founded Ford Models with her husband Jerry Ford in 1946, transforming it into one of the most influential and prestigious modeling agencies globally. Operating from Manhattan, Ford Models became synonymous with discovering and representing supermodels and celebrities, including Twiggy, Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Christie Brinkley. Eileen Ford was instrumental in professionalizing the modeling industry, establishing ethical standards and protecting models' interests during an era when the profession lacked formal safeguards. She was known for her discerning eye for talent and her advocacy for models' welfare, often acting as both mentor and protective figure. Under her leadership, Ford Models expanded internationally and became a cultural institution. Ford's business acumen and longevity—working well into her 90s—made her a pioneering female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry. Her legacy encompasses not only a business empire but also fundamental improvements to workplace standards and opportunities for models worldwide.