Nathan, the running accessories specialist, announced the acceptance of its CEO, Bridgit Lombard, into the International Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), an exclusive network of the world’s most prominent business leaders. Lombard joins the Philadelphia chapter on the heels of her promotion to the brand’s CEO role in July.
“Bridgit’s unwavering commitment to driving meaningful growth, product innovation, and educational leadership within the running channel has absolutely made her a respected force in the industry,” says Jon Reichlin, Chairman of Nathan. “She joins a fine group of peers, and I have no doubt she’ll bring the same tenacity, curiosity, and thought-leadership to this organization that she demonstrates everywhere.”
Lombard, who was also named to Sporting Goods Business’ 2013 “40 Under 40” list, is a seasoned executive with almost two decades of experience in the consumer goods and financial industries. Under her leadership, Nathan posted a 156 percent revenue increase between 2009 and 2012, averaged 40 percent growth for nine consecutive years and expanded distribution into 45 countries. In addition, with Lombard’s guidance, the brand was named to the 2013 Inc. 500/5000 for the first time in brand history and separated itself from its parent company, Penguin Brands, to become an independently-owned company. Nathan also assembled the brand’s first-ever Retail Advisory Board, made up of key industry influencers, to help guide Nathan’s long-term growth strategies.
The Philadelphia Chapter of YPO was founded in 1952 and is one of the oldest affiliates of the YPO. The chapter currently has 96 members made up of 86 males and 10 females. Comprised of more than 21,000 leaders in 129 countries, YPO is the world’s largest network of peers that connects members to exchange ideas, pursue learning and share strategies to achieve personal growth and professional success. Since 1950, YPO has transcended geographic and cultural barriers to inspire members, promote lifelong learning and address the challenges leaders face every day. Altogether, YPO member-run companies employ more than 16 million people around the world and generate $6 trillion in annual revenues.
