Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor, USA, the parent company of Deuter and Ortovox, has appointed Tom Mason as interim general manager, effective immediately. Mason succeeds Jonathan Degenhardt, who has led the brand for seven years.

Mason will continue his responsibilities as Ortovox brand manager, a position he has held since 2015, and will oversee management of Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor, USA, over the next six months, culminating with an internal review of the position in October.

Mason has over 20 years of experience in the outdoor industry, from retail to wholesale distribution.

“Tom has been an integral member of the Ortovox team for many years, demonstrating strategic leadership and exceptional industry knowledge, and we are more than confident in his abilities to lead the USA operations,” said Martin Riebel, managing director of Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor.

“We look forward to working closely with Tom and the team for this next chapter of growth.”

Additionally, Olivia Mayhew has been appointed sales manager for Deuter USA, and April Sawyer has been appointed controller for Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor, USA.

“The Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor, USA team is poised to continue our mission of elevating Deuter in the U.S. market, and I’m excited to take on this new role leading two of the most respected brands in the outdoor industry,” said Mason. The appointments of Olivia Mayhew as sales manager for Deuter USA and April Sawyer as controller for Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor, USA contribute valuable expertise and strategic insight to the team, supporting continued growth and development.

Returning to Deuter USA as sales manager after her most recent role as inside sales manager at Rumpl, Olivia Mayhew began her career with Deuter USA in 2022 as a dealer service representative and was eventually promoted to dealer service manager after being recognized for her leadership and impact.

“I’m excited to be back at Deuter in this new role as sales manager. I have such a strong connection to the brand and appreciation for the company’s commitment to product quality and meaningful partnerships,” said Mayhew.

April Sawyer was with Schwan-Stabilo Outdoor, USA, for over three years prior to rejoining the team as controller in early March.

Image courtesy Deuter, Tom Mason/LinkedIn, and Olivia Mayhew/LinkedIn