Rollerblade has hired Kalinda Mathis-Bogue, previously director of marketing at the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, to lead its marketing direction. In this newly created position, Bogue will lead the development of consumer and retail marketing strategies while overseeing marketing activities and the direction of the Rollerblade brand.
Bogue brings to Rollerblade fifteen years of experience working with leading brands in the sporting goods industry as well as a clear vision of the brands value proposition. She is regarded for seeding the explosive growth of inline skating participation in the 1990s through her development and marketing of a grassroots skating instruction program. Bogue served for seven years as the executive director of the International Inline Skating Association, an industry trade group where she was responsible for exposure for the category, research, advocacy and industry cooperative programs such as the launch of the Disney Inline Marathon. As director of marketing for the SGMA, Bogue led the re-branding efforts of the 100-year old organization and led the concept and launch of the successful Sports + Technology Convergence.
“Kalinda brings a unique perspective to Rollerblade that is fresh and modern yet is characterized by an intimate understanding of the heritage of our brand” said Stephen Charrier, co-president of Rollerblade. “That perspective paired with the breadth of her experience in the sporting goods industry and her work with the tech industry makes her an exciting addition to our management team as we look to revitalize the market.”
Rollerblade USA is based in Hamilton, NJ with worldwide headquarters in Trevignano (TV), Italy. Rollerblade is the founder and leader of the in-line skate industry, with over 250 patented product innovations. Rollerblade USA manufacturers and distributes skates, accessories and gear for inline skating.
