JanSport has hired Chris Speak as director of sales. Most recently, he served as global sales director for Vasque and Irish Setter at Red Wing Shoe Co. and brings nearly 20 years of experience to JanSport. Speak also has a long history with the JanSport brand, having previously worked for JanSport in Appleton, WI from 2000 to 2007.

As director of sales at JanSport, Speak will be responsible for managing several groups of independent sales reps across North America while facilitating strong relationships with key partners and will play a critical role in growing the JanSport equipment business. Speak will report to Rico Pasqualini, vice president of sales at JanSport, and will be based in Minneapolis, MN.

“We are extremely excited to welcome Chris back to the JanSport team,” said Rico Pasqualini. “His extensive experience, leadership and passion for the industry will be instrumental in the continued success of the JanSport brand.”

Speak has attained several notable achievements during his career, including the 2004 VF Corporation Excellence Award and the inaugural SGB 40 Under 40 Award in 2008.

JanSport is a division of VF Outdoor, Inc.