Confluence Watersports has appointed Sue Rechner to the position of president & CEO, effective December 17, 2007. With over 15 years experience in consumer products, Rechner joins the canoe and kayak manufacturer on the heels of her successful tenure as President of Victorinox Swiss Army, Inc., where she also simultaneously served as CEO of Victorinox Swiss Army Watch and Victorinox Apparel.
“Wilderness Systems, Perception, Mad River, Dagger, Wavesport and AT Paddle-these are premiere, authentic, heritage brands in paddling and the outdoors,” said Rechner. “Confluence presents a unique opportunity for me to join a company that is a category leader built on a deep culture and passion for paddlesports. I look forward to continue to build on the legacy of these great brands to position our retailers for growth,” she adds.
At Victorinox Swiss Army, Rechner, 45, helped re-define a brand portfolio that had grown reliant on its venerable line of pocket-knives. Rechner led the successful global re-launch of the Swiss Army watch business, drove the companys strategy to intensify its focus on core product growth, and leveraged brand strength to grow underperforming product categories. Building on Swiss Armys deep outdoor roots, Rechner led the introduction of an arsenal of new products and marketing initiatives which significantly contributed to the strength that the brand enjoys today.
“Confluence has been investing in equipment and personnel, improving our manufacturing and distribution facilities, as well as implementing new programs for our quality and service departments,” says Tom Nathanson, Chairman and interim CEO. “Weve made tremendous strides towards operational excellence, and Sues proven track record and team philosophy is a natural fit to build our brands, grow the company and identify opportunities to grow the paddlesports industry.” says Nathanson.
“Confluences renewed commitment to innovation, quality, customer service and continuous improvement is the foundation which will allow us to drive these tremendous canoe and kayak brands forward through the next stages of our evolution,” says Rechner.
