Fila has announced the appointment of Stefano di Martino to managing director of European operations. The Milan-born visionary has an extraordinary track record for critical business growth and development. His recent tenures at HTM Italia and Nike showcased an exceptional executive leadership style. His cultural understanding of Fila and his extensive experience in sports-both professionally and personally-made him a prime candidate to chart the brands success in Europe.
“Since the formation of Filas new executive team in 2003 we have been working to bring Fila back to its prominence as an elite Italian performance athletic brand,” said Steve Wynne, CEO of Sport Brands International and Fila. “We recognized that our real niche had been carved early on by catering to the individual performer in upscale sports categories like tennis-and, just as important, by building on an Italian heritage synonymous with design and quality craftsmanship. This renewed dedication to our true identity is the core of all future retail platforms. Success in Europe, and Italy in particular, is critical to our vision and ultimate growth as a company. In Stefano di Martino we have placed responsibility for the critical European markets. He has a remarkable reputation for building strong brands in an extremely competitive marketplace.”
Di Martino spent two years with HTM Italia, acting as the President and Managing Director. Under his two-year leadership the company increased revenue by 14 percent and profit by 700 percent in an otherwise downward trending market. He additionally served as the European Sales Director and as the Energy/Trend Director for Nike, overseeing the Europe, Middle East and Africa markets from 1989 to 2004. He was specifically tasked to lead the creation of a new division for footwear, apparel, equipment, focused on energy and trend consumers. Di Martino became known for a business savvy that included a specialty for new market development and operational efficiency. One of his primary roles at Fila will be to create a highly effective management team for Europe in its entirety, with the added responsibility of providing a solid strategic approach to rebuilding the brands position in multiple markets. “Key retailers in Italy and in Europe have worked profitably with him in the past,” said Wynne. “We are confident that he will provide them opportunities to build mutually beneficial relationships with our brand during this crucial time in Filas history.”
A one-time national 5,000-meter champion in Italy, di Martino also brings a particular passion to the sportswear company. “Fila had an all-inclusive presence in Italy when I was being raised. I do remember running in Fila shoes, and I do have a long-held affection and respect for the brand. More than most-because of my heritage-I bring a particular passion to this new position. I want to assume a key role in restoring Fila to its rightful position among the worlds great athletic brands.”
