Mountain Hardwear announced that beginning January 1, 2005, Mike Wallenfels will transition to President of Mountain Hardwear. Wallenfels will succeed Jack Gilbert, who has served as President from the Companys founding in 1993.
Wallenfels, who currently serves as VP Sales and Marketing, has been with Mountain Hardwear since 1993. He joined the Company following a successful sales career with Sierra Designs, and has contributed to the outdoor industry at large by serving as a board member of the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) for the past four years.
“Mike is well qualified to step into the Presidents role at Mountain Hardwear. He has been instrumental in developing and executing Mountain Hardwears strategic direction, and has a strong grasp of all aspects of sales and merchandising for the brand. His knowledge and understanding of the outdoor industry will prove invaluable as Mountain Hardwear leverages its strengths in the specialty dealer channel,” commented Gilbert.
Following a dynamic and successful career in the outdoor industry spanning more than three decades, Gilbert will step down from his current role at the end of this year and transition to the position of Senior Strategic Planning Advisor. In his new role, Gilbert will continue to provide strategic planning, sales support and special project assistance to Mountain Hardwear.
“I leave my current position knowing that Mountain Hardwear will be in great hands under Mikes stewardship, and am energized by the opportunity to continue to provide strategic direction for the business,” continued Gilbert.
“Jack has been an icon in the outdoor industry for many years, and we express our appreciation for his service to Mountain Hardwear and our industry. His dedication to the Company and its employees are greatly appreciated. We look forward to his continued contributions to Mountain Hardwear,” said Tim Boyle, President and CEO of Columbia Sportswear, parent company of Mountain Hardwear Inc.
