Mountain Hardwear named Kirk Richardson to serve as interim president while the company conducts a search for a permanent replacement for co-founder and president Mike Wallenfels, who has resigned to become CEO of Timbuk2 Designs.
Wallenfels co-founded Mountain Hardwear in 1993 and continued as president of the brand after Columbia purchased the company in 2003.
In an e-mail announcing his departure, Wallenfels wrote, “It is both a sad and exciting time for me as I transition into a new challenge within the outdoor and bike industry. Starting Monday, November 9th I will take on the position as CEO of Timbuk2 Designs in San Francisco…I wish everyone at Mountain Hardwear the best as they continue to pursue the vision that we started 16 years ago. They have an amazing line for Fall 2010 and they have an exceptionally talented team in place to keep the company moving forward….”
Richardson is a 30-year industry veteran, and has served as GM of Columbia Sportswear’s footwear division since December 2008. Richardson also served as president of Keen Footwear, following a 27-year career with Nike. Richardson is himself an avid climber and mountaineer and has devoted significant efforts to a number of conservation-focused causes to protect and enhance habitats for the benefit of all outdoor enthusiasts.
“We’re fortunate to have a proven leader like Kirk to step in and guide Mountain Hardwear during this important transition,” said Tim Boyle, president and CEO of Columbia Sportswear.
Boyle continued, “Mike has been a solid source of leadership and continuity for Mountain Hardwear. We appreciate all that he has done in building the Mountain Hardwear brand from its inception and growing the company’s annual revenues to within reach of $100 million. We wish him great success in his future pursuits.”
