ECCO USA said David Helter, general manager, Performance & Kid’s Division, has been promoted to specialty sales director and will oversee the company’s Golf, Performance and Kids Divisions within the U.S. market.
In this new role, Helter will be tasked with growing all three categories while enhancing efficiencies and serving as a liaison between the company’s headquarters and sales organizations. Based in Londonderry, NH, he will directly oversee CB Tuite, General Sales Manager, ECCO USA Golf Division and Erik Walcott, General Manager, ECCO USA Kids Division.
“David is the ideal person to ensure we maximize all opportunities for increased sales and enhanced customer relationships,” says Dave Quel, Chief Operating Officer, ECCO USA. “This year is already off to a promising start and were highly optimistic our strong performance at wholesale and retail will continue.”
Over his nearly 30 years in the footwear industry, Helter has held a variety of high-profile positions, including serving as President of the Rockport Kids-licensed Division of E.S. Originals, President of Candie’s Kids, Vice President of Sales for Stride Rite Children’s Group and Regional Manager for Reebok International Ltd.
“I am truly excited to assume this role and look forward to directing a tremendous team as we work to strengthen all aspects of the ECCO USA specialty businesses,” adds Helter. “The marketplace has responded very well to our latest collections, especially hybrid sport-casual shoes like the Golf Street. The opportunities are before us, and were excited to continue driving results.”
Within golf, ECCO USA has recently engaged in a series of major account and customer service initiatives. These include a supporting partnership of the PGA of America Golf Retirement Plus program, a new ECCO Golf Comfort Tech Van, a web-based retailer training module and the brand’s status as an official member of the Association of Golf Merchandisers.
The company’s golf shoes are worn in competition by scores of international Tour stars, including Fred Couples, Aaron Baddeley, Colin Montgomerie, Stuart Appleby, Arjun Atwal, John Bickerton, Bradley Dredge and many others.
