Former Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has a new gig — startup CEO

Former Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell has been appointed CEO of Filium, a Seattle-based sustainable textile company founded in 2015 as Ably. The company’s proprietary technology treats natural fabrics to resist odors, stains, and liquids, positioning itself as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic materials. Filium avoids PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ and targets active consumers and global brands demanding high-performance, sustainable products. Harrell replaces Raj Shah, who remains chairman, and will lead Filium’s expansion under a $540,000 Kickstarter-funded model launched in 2016 by brothers Raj and Akhil Shah. The company’s products are already distributed by retailers including Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, O’Neill, and The North Face. Harrell, a Seattle native and University of Washington graduate, previously served as mayor from 2021 until his defeat in last November’s election by Mayor Katie Wilson. His background includes roles as a City Council president and attorney. Filium’s president, Doug Lynch, highlighted Harrell’s leadership in vision, operations, and relationship-building as key to scaling the company’s global growth. The transition reflects Filium’s focus on merging sustainability with performance, catering to consumer demand for environmentally conscious yet high-functioning textiles. Harrell’s appointment underscores the company’s ambition to redefine the textile industry through innovation and ethical practices.