Prana Living, LLC, the maker of outdoor, yoga and active lifestyle apparel, announced that Scott Kerslake has become its new CEO, effective immediately. Kerslake succeeds Founder and current CEO, Beaver Theodosakis, who will remain on the Board of Directors and continue in an ambassador role focused on sustainability for business growth and developing relationships with business partners.
In October 2009, Michael Crooke stepped down as CEO of Prana. Theodosakis at the time reassumed the position of CEO while saying he expected to search for a new CEO sometime in 2010. Kerslake, the founder of Athleta who was brought in by Crooke, became president at the time the divided company responsibilities with Theodosakis.
“We have tremendous confidence in Scott's leadership capabilities and look forward to working with him to take Prana to new heights. Beaver has done a tremendous job creating a strong culture and a great company, we look forward to his continued involvement and engagement as an active board member,” stated Jim Caccavo, Chairman of the Board.
Prana said that since joining Prana as president 18 months ago, Kerslake has been instrumental in growing Prana's business. Kerslake was the former CEO of Athleta, where he led the development of the brand and company strategy. The women's athletic business was sold to Gap Inc. last year. Kerslake also served as president of Miraval Life In Balance, one of the highest ranked destination wellness resort spas in the world.
“Scott will be taking on the role of CEO as we embark on a new stage of growth,” says Theodosakis. “We are very excited to have Scott as our new leader, he shares our values and has the vision and skills to help Prana realize its full potential.”
Theodosakis will continue my duties as a board member with the access fund and the outdoor foundation.
In the last year, Kerslake has been instrumental in expanding Prana's business, including: the launch of prAna's catalogue program; introducing a new line of outerwear; a refreshed e-commerce presence; and driving improvements in productivity and earnings in a meaningful way.
“This is a very exciting time to be leading a special business like prAna. I have known Beaver and Pam for over ten years and have great admiration for what they have built. Over the last 18 months, I have enjoyed working closely with them and the amazing team at Prana. We've had great performance over the last year and are looking forward to building on that momentum in the years to come,” says Kerslake.
