Orange 21 has hired Jim Sepanek as vice president, Optical, effective May 9, 2011.


Sepanek, an executive with nearly 20 years experience in the optical industry, will lead business development and sales for Spy and the company’s licensed other products as it evolves its global presence in the optical category. He will report directly to Orange 21 President Michael Marckx.


“As we expand the relevance of our brands into complimentary channels, we anticipate Jim will enhance our ophthalmic competencies and operational efficiencies,” says Marckx. “The optical category has long been an interest to the business, and this addition to our executive team will allow us the opportunity to exploit exciting and previously untapped opportunities for our brands.”


Sepanek previously served as vice president of business development at Signature Eyewear where he was responsible for brand management, key account sales and product design and development. Prior to that, he held executive positions at Rem Eyewear and Revo, Inc., respectively.


“Spy Optic is uniquely positioned to expand the authenticity of its Southern California heritage to the global optical market,” says Sepanek. “I started my career in the sunglass industry with Revo and am thrilled to apply my optical experience and acumen to help further develop the Spy brand.”


Orange 21 designs, develops, markets and produces premium products for the action sports, motorsports, snow sports and lifestyle markets under the brands Spy Optic, ONeill, Margaritaville and Melodies by MJB.