Easton Sports has hired Duke Stump as senior vice president of culture, creative and brand innovation. Additionally, the company appointed Mike Zlaket as executive vice president and general manager; named Matt Arndt as senior vice president product management; and tapped Doug Appleton as general manager of the lacrosse division.
“This marks the beginning of an exciting turning point for the brand,” said Chris Zimmerman, president of Easton Sports. “Duke, Mike, Matt and Doug are dynamic leaders whose expertise will be essential in connecting with our passionate consumer bases. As we look to redefine the company's messaging into one singular voice, having these experienced executives working collaboratively is crucial in the rebirth of the Easton brand. They have an enormous responsibility for extending our heritage in groundbreaking product.”
Renowned as one of the top branding architects, Easton said Stump will be integral in the development and design of Easton products, along with managing the brand's storytelling and consumer facing communications.
Stump was previously chief marketing officer for Seventh Generation, responsible for leading a gifted team focused on brand, product innovation, design, communications, corporate responsibility and consumer insights. While at NIKE he enjoyed a variety of senior executive leadership roles in brand, product and sales spanning 15 years.
An experienced leader with nearly 20 years at the company, Zlaket has managed both the Easton Baseball/Softball and Riddell brands. As executive VP and general manager, Zlaket will build upon his long, successful track record of maximizing value for the company's retailers and consumers through a combination of innovative product, pricing, margins, and service.
Doug Appleton brings a lifetime of experience to lacrosse as a player, coach and equipment developer. In 2005, his passion led to the founding Talon Lacrosse, a designer and developer of lacrosse equipment. In January 2010, Easton Sports acquired Talon Lacrosse, where Appleton is charged with overseeing the expansion of the Company's newest division.