Rudy Project, the Italian manufacturer of sports sunglasses, prescription eyewear,and cycling helmets, transitioned from its longtime independent distributorship model to direct ownership. Jaclyn Mayer, who held numerous leadership roles at Canyon Bicycles USA, was appointed general manager of Rudy Project North America.
Following the acquisition of Rudy Project North America earlier this year, the North American business now operates as a wholly owned subsidiary of Italy-based Rudy Project S.p.A., “reinforcing the company’s long-term investment in the U.S. and Canadian markets.”
Mayer’s appointment took effect on May 1.
Mayer has been with Canyon Bicycles since late 2019, with her most recent role being senior leader, retail & service partnerships, U.S. Rudy Project said, “Over her tenure, she played a key role in scaling Canyon’s customer-facing operations, service partnerships, event activations, and brand experience strategies during a period of significant growth.”
Mayer previously worked for the National Powersport Auctions, GracedByGrit and MPA Event Graphics.
“North America remains one of the most important strategic markets for Rudy Project,” said Cristiano Barbazza, president and CEO of Rudy Project S.p.A. “Bringing the business fully in-house allows us to operate with greater alignment, speed, and focus while investing more directly in our athletes, retail partners, and consumers. Jaclyn brings an exceptional combination of leadership, operational excellence, and customer-centric thinking that will help drive the next phase of growth.”
“This is an exciting moment for Rudy Project,” said Mayer. “The brand has a deep heritage of innovation and performance, with authentic roots in endurance sports and a passionate community behind it. I’m excited to help shape the next chapter in North America by building stronger connections with athletes, dealers, and consumers while creating a premium brand experience at every touchpoint.”
Rudy Project said the transition to a direct subsidiary structure “will allow Rudy Project to accelerate decision-making, strengthen retailer and partner support, improve operational efficiencies and create a more integrated global brand experience across product, marketing, and customer service.”
Rudy Project was founded in 1985 in Italy and remains committed to its core performance categories, including cycling, triathlon, running, trail running and snow, while continuing to invest in premium eyewear, helmets, prescription solutions, and athlete partnerships worldwide.
Images courtesy Rudy Project
