Footwear industry veteran Victor Bieker has joined Rocky Brands as vice president of footwear product development and sourcing, according to David Sharp, president. Prior to joining the company, Bieker was director of footwear development, production and sourcing for Columbia Sportswear. In his new role with Rocky Brands, Bieker will manage the team responsible for all footwear product development and sourcing for the multiple brands under the Rocky Brands umbrella.

“Victor brings a well-rounded, senior management background in a wide variety of product categories,” said Sharp. “He has worked with some of the other leading manufacturers in our industry which gives him the ability to understand the unique opportunities and challenges facing major companies in today’s footwear trade. We needed someone of Victor’s caliber to fill such an important role with Rocky Brands.”

Bieker had been with Columbia Sportswear since 1999. While there, he managed the company’s sourcing, pricing and production efforts.

Previously, Bieker served as director of product development for Apex Athletic Footwear and Yukon Outdoor Brand, both divisions of Global Sports International. He also spent 17 years with Danner, serving as factory manager for USA production where he was responsible for product manufacturing, quality control and pattern design and development.

“Rocky Brands is a growing, dynamic company with leading brands in a variety of categories,” said Bieker. “I look forward to continuing to build upon the company’s reputation as a product innovator in all of our business segments.”