Zamberlan hired industry veteran Bob Whip as U.S. general manager. The company said Whip’s strategic business leadership experience would bolster the brand’s growth and expand its retail partnerships. Whip replaces outgoing GM Phil Benson who has taken a principal role within private equity in partnership with Novastone Capital Advisors and will remain in the outdoor industry.
Whip reportedly started at the general manager level leading Trek Bicycle Corp.’s international subsidiary offices in Europe and Japan. From there, he led Johnson Health Tech North America as president of BH Fitness USA as CEO and YT Industries as president. Most recently, Whip was the GM for Cervélo Cycles.
“Bob’s appointment to lead Zamberlan USA marks an exciting new chapter in our company’s journey,” said Phil Benson, outgoing general manager, who has led Zamberlan for the past 15 years with “unprecedented year-over-year growth for more than a decade.”
“With his proven leadership experience and strategic mindset, Bob is the ideal leader to take Zamberlan into the future as we experience exceptional year-over-year growth and charge toward the brand’s 100th anniversary,” continued Bensen.
“I am incredibly grateful for the last fifteen years spent working alongside the Zamberlan family,” said Benson. “Dedicated to the design and manufacturing of its entire product line in Italy, Zamberlan continues to make the difficult but ever-fruitful decision to honor its legacy and take its place among the most authentic brands in the outdoor industry. I have full confidence that under Bob’s leadership, the Zamberlan brand will continue to thrive, innovate and enable adventure.”
Photo courtesy Zamberlan
