Columbia Sportswear Company has appointed Scott Kerslake to serve as interim brand president of Mountain Hardwear Inc. while it conducts a global search for a permanent brand leader to replace Topher Gaylord, who has resigned.
Kerslake has a long track record of building strong brands and strong brand-centric organizations. His history includes co-founder and CEO of the Athleta brand from 1997 to 2004 and CEO of the Prana brand since 2009. While serving as Mountain Hardwear’s interim brand president, he will retain his current role as CEO of Prana.
“We’re fortunate to have a proven leader like Scott to step in and guide Mountain Hardwear during this important transition,” said Bryan Timm, president of Columbia Sportswear. “Mountain Hardwear remains one of our most promising brands. We will be looking for a proven leader who understands the high performance demands of Mountain Hardwear’s consumers and who can help the brand realize that potential. The relationships Scott has built with the Mountain Hardwear management team, and his established relationships with the brand’s key wholesale customers, will provide valuable leadership during the search process.”
Topher Gaylord has served as president of Mountain Hardwear since March 2010.
“Over the past five years, Topher has conscientiously led the Mountain Hardwear brand,” Timm noted. “We wish him great success in his future adventures.”
