Sazzi Footwear, created by Teva founder Mark Thatcher and based in Newport Beach, CA, is adding to its team. Sazzi is pleased to announce the addition of footwear and outdoor industry veteran Brian Walton as the company’s general manager.
Walton, who started his new position in May, has become an integral part of the company’s ongoing day-to-day operations. He will oversee customer and dealer support, marketing, domestic sales and international distribution for Sazzi. Walton has been an active part of the outdoor industry for more than 25 years working in sales territories throughout the country with a variety of brands. For a number of years, he worked with Thatcher at Teva. Most recently, Walton oversaw sales for Patagonia Footwear in California, Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii.
Sazzi founder, Mark Thatcher said, “Since meeting Brian on the river in the Grand Canyon many years ago, I’ve watched him grow and excel in our industry. His experience and real-time perspective on the core retail market is incredibly valuable to our brand. We’re excited about his involvement and his ongoing contributions.”
Brett Ritter, CEO of Sazzi, says the brand’s unique patent-pending designs coupled with a talented team, including Walton, will help to propel the brand forward in its formative years.
“Brian is the quintessential footwear professional and he’s well known in the industry, especially among core outdoor retailers and key reps. We are excited to have him join our team and look forward to seeing his impact on the brand,” says Ritter. “From his understanding of marketing and branding to selling into the retail environment, Brian brings unparalleled experience to our management team. His background and perspective will undoubtedly leave a positive, long-lasting impression on this company.”
Like many people in the outdoor industry, Walton would tell you that he got into it as a way of extending the lifestyle that he lives and loves.
“Having lived much of my life in Colorado and California, I’ve had the good fortune to spend my free time kayaking, mountain biking, surfing and hiking,” says Walton. “There’s nothing like being in an industry that celebrates an active, outdoor lifestyle. My past consists of roles with Patagonia, Merrell, Teva, The North Face all of which offered me an awesome environment to work hard and play hard. I look forward to contributing to Sazzi’s growth and having a great time while I’m at it.” Walton will split time between his home in Glenwood Springs, Colorado and the company’s headquarters in Newport Beach, California.
Sazzi Footwear was created by Teva® founder, Mark Thatcher and represents a long-standing vision for the perfect performance sport sandal. Sazzi products bring a harmonious balance of technological innovation, style, performance and comfort to modern day footwear for men and women who enjoy an active, healthy, outdoor and fitness-based lifestyle.
