Icebreaker has named Peter Ottervanger general manager for Europe. Ottervanger will be responsible for all of Icebreaker’s business interests in Europe, overseeing wholesale, retail and e-commerce sales that represents 45 percent of Icebreaker’s global sales, and the supporting operations and customer service teams.
“Peter’s strong leadership experience in growing the European market for global footwear and apparel brands will be an incredible asset to Icebreaker,” says Rob Fyfe, Icebreaker Chief Executive Officer. “As a proven motivational leader, he has a tremendous understanding of the multichannel and wholesale landscape, which will ensure our continued long term growth across Europe.”
Peter brings over 30 years of experience to Icebreaker, most recently as the Vice President & General Manager for Sole Technology EMEA, where he managed European direct markets, distributors and agents for their entire portfolio of brands in footwear, apparel, snowboard boots and snow outerwear; and developed new markets in the Middle East and Africa. He previously served as Managing Director for O’Neill Europe’s retail division, responsible for the overall European retail strategy with a portfolio of 30 stores and as the European Retail Manager for Dockers Europe.
“Icebreaker’s strong DNA, highly regarded functional and technical layer systems and outdoor sports lifestyle angle – all rooted in a sustainable business model- is ticking a lot of boxes for me,” says Peter Ottervanger. “I am very proud to join the team, develop and implement the long term growth strategy and build on strong relationship within the organization and through business partners across all markets.”
Peter will be based at Icebreaker’s European headquarters in Starnberg, Germany beginning October 1, 2014.
