K2 Sports promoted John O'Connor to vice president of USA Sales for K2 Sports. O'Connor joined the company in 1994, serving a successful and profitable term as U.S. director of sales before accepting his expanded role earlier this week.
To further enhance its experienced sales organization, the Seattle-based manufacturer named long-time industry pundit Eric Hutchison as K2 Snowboarding sales manager to drive the brand's U.S. retail programs.
“Few people know the business as well and have the relationships that Eric has developed over the past two decades,” said O'Connor “We have watched him for years and are thoroughly impressed with his track record. There's no doubt he'll be able to step in and elevate K2's sales status to an even higher level.”
Hutchison spent the last 19 years with the Rossignol camp starting as a regional sales rep and most recently serving as National Sales Manager and North America Product Manager for Rossignol's snowboard division since 2004.
“It's hard to believe my career in the snowboard industry has spanned nearly half my life,” Hutchison said. “During that time I've had the opportunity to explore nearly every aspect of the business from product to marketing and sales in North America, Europe and Asia.
“When you consider the history of K2 Snowboarding along with the brand's commitment to the sport from day one, it's absolutely amazing to have the opportunity to join the K2 team. I'm stoked to be part of program and look forward to sharing the lessons I've learned along the way to help drive the brand forward for years to come.”
Hutchison will relocate from Park City to Seattle and begin his new role November 10th. Hutchinson joins the ranks alongside Kevin Lewis, a K2 Sports asset since 1999, who was promoted to U.S. Sales Manager for K2 Skis in early August. Both report directly to O'Connor to continue the success of both hard good divisions.
“We are excited to have John take on more responsibilities within our organization at the dawn of our 50th anniversary,” said Louis Boudreault, K2's Senior VP Sales and Marketing, North America. “The addition of Eric, Kevin's promotion, and John's expanded leadership role further solidify our commitment to the U.S. market and our customers.”
Seattle-based K2 Sports is a designer, manufacturer and marketer of like-minded winter and summer recreational products.
