Performance Sports Group Ltd. appointed Harlan Kent as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer and as a member of its board of directors, both effective June 20.
The hiring follows a comprehensive search process undertaken by the board of directors with the assistance of a leading executive search firm. Performance Sports Group former CEO Kevin Davis stepped down in March following plummeting sales and profits, a stock price collapse, numerous class action lawsuits, and a proxy battle launched by a former chairman.
According to Performance Sports Group, Kent has a strong track record of leading consumer-centric brands, growing profitability and creating shareholder value. As President and CEO of Yankee Candle, Inc., he led the organization through consistent growth in revenues, profits and shareholder value. During his tenure as President and CEO, Yankee Candle revenues more than doubled to $840 million and the company’s market capitalization increased to $1.7 billion.
“Over his 13-year career at Yankee Candle, Harlan grew both revenues and margins through consumer focus, product innovation and operational excellence,” said Bernard McDonell, Chairman of the Board, Performance Sports Group. “We are confident that Harlan’s expertise in building brands and creating shareholder value will drive Performance Sports Group to the next stage of growth. The Board looks forward to working with Harlan and the entire management team as we take the actions necessary to successfully execute our strategy and capitalize on the opportunities ahead.”
During his tenure with Yankee Candle, Kent led the successful expansion of the company’s go-to-market strategy including diversification of the product portfolio, emphasis on brand building and increase in channel distribution.
“I’m excited to join the team at Performance Sports Group, a company best known for its iconic brands and elevating player performance and protection,” Kent said. “PSG has a strong portfolio of leading brands, a successful track record of product innovation and significant global growth potential. I look forward to working closely with the Board and our employees to fulfill our consumer-centric mission.”
Kent’s career has been marked with success in a range of evolving senior roles across category management, operations, business development and leadership in a number of global consumer companies including Alex and Ani, C. Wonder, Totes Isotoner Corporation, Olin Corporation, Campbell Soup Company and Dole Food Company. Kent began his career at Bain and Company as a consultant and holds a bachelor’s degree in economics from Dartmouth College.
Amir Rosenthal, who has served as interim CEO of Performance Sports Group since March 22, remains with the company.
“We are grateful to Amir for stepping in as interim CEO, while also overseeing the day-to-day management of our entire brand portfolio,” McDonell said. “Amir is a valuable leader within our organization and we are appreciative of his efforts as well as the continued commitment and dedication shown by the employees of Performance Sports Group.”
Performance Sports Group[s brands include BAUER, MISSION, MAVERIK, CASCADE, INARIA, COMBAT and EASTON.
