Black Diamond Equipment, a global leader of innovative active outdoor performance equipment and apparel, has appointed Jan-Willem Driessen global vice-president of marketing and DTC sales. Additionally, Claire Diepenbrock was appointed to e-commerce marketing director and Brenna Priest as its national field sales manager. Lastly, Meghan Clough was named category director of Black Diamond’s mountain division of products.
“These four exceptional new hires represent Black Diamond’s ongoing recruitment efforts to invest in the people to support our global platform,” says John Walbrecht, president of Black Diamond Equipment. “Each of these individuals brings significant experience to help lead and grow our company.”
Driessen recently served as vice president of global marketing at 5.11, renowned for its award-winning tactical products, where he was responsible for planning, development and implementation of marketing strategies while targeting existing and new markets for the brand. He also forged strong brand partnerships with Ubisoft and Crossfit® during his tenure.
“Serving in this role for Black Diamond is an amazing opportunity,” says Jan-Willem Driessen, global vice-president of marketing. “BD’s innovative products, loyal following and rich heritage in climbing lends itself to creating compelling marketing stories that resonate with our core and introduce us to new audiences.”
Other new hires for Black Diamond marketing include Claire Diepenbrock. Diepenbrock will serve as eCommerce marketing director and brings an extensive background in ecommerce and digital online marketing campaign strategy. She formerly served as the eCommerce marketing manager for Patagonia.
In news from the sales division at Black Diamond Equipment, Brenna Priest was named national field sales manager. In this role, Priest will manage the North American sales representative team and also be responsible for developing new business with specialty accounts. Priest joins Black Diamond from Trango, where she served as its national sales manager.
“Brenna’s industry experience, strategic thinking and background as an avid climber make her a great fit for the BD team and will help us evolve our North American sales and distribution strategy,” says Stephan Hagenbusch, vice-president of global sales.
Lastly, Meghan Clough was appointed category director of Black Diamond’s mountain division of products. Clough will leverage her softgoods and equipment experience based on her background in the outdoor and action sports industries as she inherits one of its largest and quickest growing categories. Black Diamond’s mountain category includes packs, trekking poles, lighting, tents, etc.
