Sugoi Performance Apparel hired James Samuel who will join Sugoi April 17th as VP of Sales. Samuel has held sales and marketing roles in the performance sports sector for over 10 years. With tours as International Sales Manager for both Pearl Izumi and Schwinn Cycling and Fitness, Samuel joins Sugoi with a strong international background which will continue to support and fuel Sugoi's expanding global market. Most recently the Global Sales Manager for Sierra Designs, Samuel possesses excellent relationships in the specialty market towards which Sugoi directs their products.

Samuel builds on the strength of the existing sales team with Tim Hanifin remaining in place as Director of Sales for the USA and Charles Russell as Director of Sales for Europe. With continued positive growth in the global sporting goods market, the expanded sales team will be able to extend their leadership to both North America and Europe.

“We are very excited to have James Samuel on board at Sugoi.” said Stan Mavis, President of Sugoi, “As we continue to grow our brand in the premium specialty channel, there is no better and experienced professional to lead our growth in all our specialty store categories; running, cycling, triathlon, swim and accessories.”

“I'm excited to renew ties with the specialty bike and run industry which has been a long time passion. To do so with a gem of a brand like Sugoi that has such a strong reputation and legacy is a dream come true” said Samuel. “I was immediately drawn to the successful team that Sugoi has in place and it's a fantastic opportunity to lead the sales team as we grow the categories in the different international regions.” An avid triathlete, marathoner and outdoor enthusiast himself, Samuel will be an excellent complement to the Sugoi culture.

Samuel will be located at Sugoi's worldwide headquarters in Vancouver, Canada.