VANCOUVER, BC, July 15,
2024 /CNW/ - Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is
thrilled to announce the appointment of Chris Speyer, as the company's new Chief
Merchandising Officer (CMO).
Having spent the last seven years with US outdoor retailer REI
Co-op as their CMO, Chris brings over three decades of leadership
experience in the specialty outdoor retail, wholesale, and
direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses. He will officially join MEC's
executive team at the end of July.
"We are ecstatic to welcome Chris to our team at MEC," says CEO
Peter Hlynsky. "With his deep
industry knowledge and longstanding vendor relationships, he brings
expertise that is going to elevate our teams and support our next
phase of growth. Chris leads with values and has a genuine passion
for the outdoors, in total alignment with MEC's core principles.
His remarkable track record of working with different brands and
growing the private label business will be instrumental in
maximizing the potential of MEC's own label brand and continuing to
offer top tier assortments at best the price to members."
Passionate about the outdoors and dedicated to working with
values-led companies, Chris's Canadian roots run deep. He grew up
in Ottawa where his mom encouraged
his participation in the outdoors and his early industry career saw
him selling skis and bikes and athletic footwear at a local store.
Chris is an avid biker, skier, and trail runner, recently
completing the Canyon's
50k in Auburn, CA.
Having been a MEC Member since the late 90's when living in
Calgary, he recognizes the immense
potential of MEC and is eager to contribute his skills to the
brands continued success.
"Joining MEC feels like coming home," says Chris Speyer. "I still remember flipping through
the seasonal catalog, inspired by the amazing photos and gear.
Beyond the thrill of returning to Canada, I'm drawn to how MEC stays true to its
founding values. It's a beloved brand that prioritizes great people
and great products, aligning perfectly with my values and
leadership style. I'm beyond excited to be part of the team and
help MEC continue to thrive and succeed!"
MEC is confident that Chris's leadership will be instrumental in
driving the company's sustainable growth and innovation, further
solidifying its position as Canada's most trusted outdoor brand and
retailer. Chris steps into his new role with MEC in at the end of
July 2024.
ABOUT MEC
Established in 1971, Mountain Equipment Company (MEC) is
Canada's go-to place for technical
outdoor gear, know-how and inspiration. Combining
high-quality apparel and equipment with expert advice and
first-hand experience. MEC was recognised as Canadas Most Trusted
Brand for 2023 by the The Gustavson Brand Trust
Index, reflecting the company's long-term commitment to
fostering trust by delivering exceptional customer experiences, and
offering unparalleled value on affordable, quality outdoor
gear.
Continually recognised as one of Canada's Greenest Employers and recently
awarded the Gordon Ritchie Service
Award by Avalanche Canada, MEC is a strong backer of sustainability
and community initiatives and has invested over $48 million into non-profit organizations that
support outdoor recreation and conservation. It supports a wide
range of activities including camping, snowsports, watersports,
cycling, climbing, hiking, trail running and travel.
SOURCE Mountain Equipment Company