Boardriders Inc. announced the appointment of Brad Blankinship as global general manager, Quiksilver and David Brooks as global general manager, RVCA.
Boardriders said Blankinship, who succeeds Garry Wall, “has demonstrated a history of building brands and has a strong entrepreneurial mindset.” He previously worked as global general manager, RVCA. “We look forward to seeing Brad bring his passion and deep experience to the Quiksilver brand,” said Boardriders’ CEO, Arne Arens.
Stepping into Blankinship’s role is David Brooks, who had been working as global general manager, partnerships and distribution leading collaborations and partnerships, Latin America distribution, and business development across all brands. Before that, he worked as global general manager of the Element brand. He also held a variety of roles including working in sports marketing, talent management and action sports media companies. “I’m thrilled to work with founder and brand visionary, Pat Tenore, to continue RVCA’s global growth and expansion strategy,” said Brooks.
Arens commented: “The announcement today is a testament to the deep pool of talent within the Boardriders business. Both Brad and David have successful brand leadership experience with Boardriders and that experience combined with a detailed appreciation of our exciting planned brand investment and growth phase positions each of them perfectly for their new roles. We are thrilled to be making these internal promotions to lead the Quiksilver and RVCA brands.”
Blankinship and Brooks will report directly to Shannan North, president, commercial strategy and growth, and chief brand officer.
“Once again, we want to thank Garry Wall for his dedication to the success of Quiksilver, its people and heritage. While he will be transitioning from Boardriders in early 2022 after an impressive 28 years with the company, we greatly appreciate his partnership throughout this process and the contribution to the strong brand he has shaped and led,” said Arens.
Boardriders’ brands include Quiksilver, Billabong, ROXY, DC Shoes, RVCA, Element, and VonZipper.
