British outdoor clothing brand Montane has appointed industry veteran Mike Downing of Boulder, CO as manager for its U.S. business.

Downing will oversee wholesale, professional and direct sales for Montane’s apparel and equipment collection. He has previously worked in sales roles with Arc’teryx, Suunto, Five Ten, and La Sportiva and work with Denny, ink. based in Jackson Hole, WY, its PR agency, responsible for media, communications counsel and community marketing.

The announcement comes as the company renews its commitment to the North American market with its updated brand position, visual identity and strategic sales program.

“As we’ve evolved our premium product assortment within the active, lightweight apparel and equipment categories, our brand becomes even more relevant to the U.S. market,” said Gary Bryant, managing director, Montane. “We searched high and low for qualified partners that will help us establish a real presence of innovation and authenticity within our traditional markets while helping foster our development into new spaces. Both Downing and Denny, ink have a proven history of building successful brands in the US, and we’re excited to have them join the Montane team in this next phase of our growth.”

“Montane’s practical design and undeniable performance have made it a coveted brand in the rest of the world,” said Chris Denny of Denny, ink. “We’re thrilled to be telling the Montane design story and ultimately expand the awareness of Montane products to an entirely new audience here in the U.S.”

“I am honored to be working with the Montane sales, marketing and design teams and introducing this great new collection of technical apparel and equipment that is accessible to everyone,” added Downing.

Photo courtesy Montane