📧 ericbschenker@gmail.comWith over 20 years of transformative leadership, I played a pivotal role in shaping Craft Sportswear North America (CSNA), steering it from startup to become one of North America’s most admired endurance brands. Fueled by a Challenger Brand mentality and a profound appreciation for Scandinavian culture, I crafted a successful North American brand strategy and cultivated a workplace culture anchored in values including inclusivity, work-life balance, innovation, and sustainability.During my tenure as the brand’s first Director of Sales & Marketing, I spearheaded growth from the startup phase, consistently delivering substantial growth. With hands-on involvement across all facets of the business, I achieved widespread market penetration and increased sales in various endurance categories, leading to our acquisition and promotion to COO. Critical to the brand's expansion, I forged lasting relationships with pinnacle specialty and larger retail partners, including REI, Nordstroms, Fleet Feet, Dick's Sporting Goods, Free People, and others. During that same time, I established and grew CSNA’s DTC channel, ensuring a balanced approach for growth while protecting relationships with wholesale partners. My promotion to CEO positioned me as a trusted advisor to the international publicly traded parent company's board, providing strategic guidance on vision, digital operations, financial analysis, and regulatory compliance. Despite the challenges of COVID-19, I delivered double-digit EBIT, reaching record profits while retaining the entire workforce.Under my guidance, we secured strategic partnerships, including groundbreaking collaborations with Lifetime Fitness, Spartan, Ragnar Race Series, Pokémon Go, and orchestrated a first-of-its-kind co-sponsorship of the US Ski Team with LL Bean.After 19 years, I leave CSNA with a long-term roadmap and meticulous business plan, supporting the company’s trajectory to achieve topline revenues of $100M in 10 years.WHAT’S NEXT?As an accomplished leader in the consumer goods industry, I bring a successful track record coupled with an array of business strategies for swift and high-quality execution. My leadership style fosters a culture of pride and motivation around a shared mission. Skilled in navigating market complexities, I am well-prepared for a CEO role with an emerging or evolving brand, particularly in areas that positively impact the healthspan of individuals and the planet. I welcome connections to expand my network and explore opportunities to contribute value and expertise.