Icebreaker named its former GM in New Zealand, Lisa Thompson, as vice president of U.S. sales.
 
“In the spirit of Icebreaker’s global growth and expanding footprint , we are very pleased that Lisa Thompson who served as general manager of Icebreaker New Zealand — and also known as ‘princess’ — has agreed to take on this exciting new challenge,” said Tony Balfour, general manager for global markets. “Lisa has unmatched Icebreaker experience, do-what-it-takes attitude, and a sheer passion for life, which makes her the perfect person for this role.”
 
Thompson, one of Icebreaker’s most tenured leaders, started with the company in 1999, a few months before her 21st birthday, as receptionist and office manager. She has also worked as Australian market and account manager, and has been GM of Icebreaker’s New Zealand market since 2004. Thompson will report to Russ Hopcus, president of Icebreaker USA. Thompson and her husband, Phil, and their three children will relocate from Wellington, New Zealand, to Portland, OR in February 2010.
 
“I’ve been with Icebreaker for more than 10 years when we had only four employees, two product ranges and 100 retailers globally. I know the brand and the product inside and out. I’m thrilled with this new opportunity and look forward to introducing more and more Americans to the benefits of Merino from Icebreaker,” said Thompson, who saw Icebreaker grow into a  household name in New Zealand.


Thompson sees great opportunity in developing strong relationships with specialty retailers.


“Icebreaker offers retailers unique and new business opportunities,” she said. “We are a performance outdoor brand expanding into running and cycling as well as the active lifestyle category. We can help bring new customers into their stores and generate purchases of new styles like women’s dresses and men’s underwear in addition to our famous base layer apparel.”

She added that repeat business is an extra benefit for retailers.


“People who wear Icebreaker merino become addicted, and it pulls people back into stores.” Thompson said Icebreaker will, in addition to furthering its business in the outdoor specialty channel, begin focus on new channels in the U.S., from department stores to running to lifestyle.