K2 Skis announced that 10-plus year company veteran Ryan McBride is now leading the brand’s U.S. sales. Having ran sales for Line Skis and Full Tilt Boots for the last five years, the move into this new role has proved to be a fluid transition. With his expertise and authenticity, the brand says, McBride will undoubtedly do great things for K2 Skis in the years to come.
As the leader of U.S. sales, McBride’s energy is focused on strengthening retail partnerships and discovering new ways to steer consumers to K2 retailers. Reinforcing this goal is a company-wide decision to not sell ski or snowboard hard goods directly through K2 brand websites for the 2017/2018 season. In addition to supporting K2 retailers, McBride will manage and motivate independent sales reps, serve as the go-to person for sale forecasts and marketing initiatives, and serve as the primary sales voice for global brand direction and product development.
“We are thrilled to have Ryan join our crew and promote sales growth,” stated Valerie Long, K2 Skis Marketing Manager. “His enthusiasm is contagious, and his knowledge of our brand and industry as a whole will serve as an internal driving force.”
The K2 brand has come a long way since its humble beginnings on Vashon, but what has stayed the same is that every K2 employee has a collective passion for skiing and the outdoors. McBride’s personal alignment with K2 Sports’ core mission and dedicated work ethic have been keys to his success for the last 10 years. “Working my way from intern and customer service, to marketing and ultimately sales, I know the range of work that goes into running the brand smoothly,” said McBride. “I recognize the importance of acknowledging every role as much as possible.”
When asked where he aims to take sales in the upcoming year, McBride responded, “K2 has a big opportunity for growth in the U.S. outdoor sport industry and I am excited to be a part of the team that is going to get K2 back on top.”
Bringing outdoor enthusiasts into a “K2 State of Mind” since 1962, K2’s unwavering passion for skiing is the driving force behind its award-winning product and innovations. With a design philosophy that embraces a specific design for every condition, K2’s collection of award-winning skis, boots, poles and helmets for men, women and children offers a complete solution for any type of skier and ability level. Whether at the resort, in the park or deep in the backcountry, K2 provides performance-driven, quality goods for the ultimate enjoyment in the great outdoors. For the latest information on K2 Skis including athletes and promotions, please visit www.K2skis.com.