As merino wool continues to gain acceptance in the U.S. for its performance, and comfort as well as sustainability and style benefits, The Merino Company – an Australian-based merino wool manufacturing and marketing group – appointed Jose Fernandez as general manager, knitwear TMC. Jose will be charged with driving TMC’s ‘sheep to shelf’ business strategy among North American- based outdoor and luxury brands.

With over a decade of fashion industry experience, Jose is known for his innovative approach to manufacturing and textile technology. Prior to joining TMC, Jose founded a sourcing and production management company (Re: Source International), where he also acted as an agent for Designer Textiles.

Jose’s career began as a designer shoe buyer for leading American fashion retailer Nordstrom. From Nordstrom Jose took on a management position with The Gap, Inc. This then led to the role of Director of Manufacturing for Ariat International, a company dedicated to footwear and apparel for equestrian athletes.

CEO of TMC Mark Mackinnon said, “Jose is a key appointment for TMC. This partnership will help grow our U.S. business as well as continuing to develop our established customers within this market. We are very fortunate to have someone of Jose’s caliber join TMC. Jose’s substantial industry and operational experience is a great asset to TMC at this exciting time”