Cotopaxi has appointed two key leadership positions, with Craig Rowley as the chief marketing officer (CMO) and Sara Westbrook as the new SVP of product and merchandising.
According to a media release, Rowley, as Cotopaxi’s CMO, is responsible for steering the company’s marketing strategy to elevate the brand’s presence across all consumer touchpoints. He reportedly brings a wealth of experience driving omnichannel marketing strategies that have “driven outsized retail and e-commerce growth” for Nike, Mountain Hardwear, Shutterfly, Toyota, and one of Cotopaxi’s key wholesale partners, REI.
“I’m excited to work alongside our talented Cotopaxi team to continue to build our vibrant community of brand enthusiasts,“ said Rowley. “Cotopaxi has always been about redefining what it means to be an outdoor brand. We are doubling down on that strategy as Cotopaxi continues to lead with bold, innovative gear and apparel to fuel adventures near and far.”
As SVP of Product and Merchandising, Westbrook will lead the company’s product strategy, guiding the development of innovative outdoor gear and apparel that “reflects the brand’s purpose and its customers’ evolving needs.”
“Drawing on years of experience with top-tier brands, including Marine Layer and J.Crew, Sara will ensure that Cotopaxi continues to deliver exceptional products that balance design, durability and sustainability,“ the company reported.
“Thoughtful product curation and innovation is at the heart of what we do,“ said Westbrook. “Our team is focused on creating products that enable and welcome people to the outdoor experience while minimizing environmental impact. I’m excited to work with the team to deliver products that solve problems for our customers, evoke joy and optimism and champion the values we stand for.”
In other news, Cotopaxi Founder Stephan Jacob, who held the COO/CTO role for the past 10 years, is transitioning into a new chief global/business development officer role. In that capacity, Jacob will oversee the brand’s growth in Canada, Europe, Asia, and LATAM as well as corporate and marketplace channels.
“These have been our founding principles since day 0, and I am beyond grateful that Sara and Craig have joined our team. Their tremendous expertise and hands-on leadership will allow us to expand Cotopaxi’s reach and impact globally during this next decade of brand building,“ said Jacob.
“Product excellence and brand integrity go hand in hand,“ added Lindsay Shumlas, CEO of Cotopaxi, summing up the significance of the new hires. “With Craig and Sara on board and Stephan in a global growth role, we are poised to not only expand our product offerings but also deepen the positive impact we have on the environment and the communities we serve. Their leadership will be instrumental in amplifying our mission and creating lasting change in the outdoor industry here in the US and abroad.”
Images courtesy Cotopaxi
