Spyder announced that J.J. Collier joined the brand as VP of Design and Merchandising. Collier’s 12 years of brand experience includes posts as Senior Designer for Salomon and as Design Director at Polo Ralph Lauren RLX.

He is responsible for establishing the vision of Spyder’s product collections and leading concept, design, and finishing at the world’s most functional skiwear and premium lifestyle apparel brand.

Collier is also a former elite level pro snowsport athlete.

“Having transitioned from athlete to designing, Spyder allows me to converge of all my design and sport experiences. When I heard about Tom’s new directives for the brand, I wanted in. I am stoked,” he said.

Collier reports directly to Tom McGann, CEO, who recruited him to Spyder.

“J.J. has an instinctual eye for the aesthetic and merges fashion with technical seamlessly. He has the necessary combination of design expertise, taste, and market intuition, and were excited to have him in-house as part of the senior leadership team,” McGann said.

Collier explains that he’s charged with taking Spyder’s line to a cohesive, elevated presentation. “The merch team has been doing a great job; Ill put that final creative touchstone in place. With all needs considered,” Collier reflected, “we will make apparel and accessories that are on-trend, compelling, and new, all balanced with the commercial needs of our global brand.”

The appointment was effective April 1, 2010. Collier is based at Spyder’s Boulder, Colo headquarters.