Primaloft’s new President becomes CEO

US advanced material technology provider PrimaLoft has appointed Anne Cavassa its new Chief Executive Officer. She was only named company President in November.

The speedy promotion reflects its “acceleration of a planned transition to the next phase of the company’s leadership”, PrimaLoft said.

The company is a prominent player in the move away from natural down filling in outerwear with its synergic offerings being used by major brands including The North Face, Jack Wolfskin and Helly Hansen

As part of the leadership change, after more than a decade as President and CEO, Mike Joyce will transition into the role of Vice-Chair on the company’s board of directors.

Cavassa brings nearly three decades of experience to the business. This includes her previous tenure as President of Saucony. And coupled with her role as Senior Vice-President and Chief Customer Experience Officer at Brooks Sports, “showcases her expertise in driving growth across footwear and apparel sectors”.

Additionally, her involvement across product, customer experience, retail, and brand marketing includes “pivotal leadership positions” at Timberland, Nike, Reebok, Tommy Bahama, and Eddie Bauer.

Cavassa said: “After spearheading the establishment of PrimaLoft as its own company in 2012, Mike is, in essence, the founder of PrimaLoft, taking the company from a small business with a big vision to the market leader in branded synthetic insulation. I am happy to continue to work with Mike in his new position on the board.”

She added: “As an ingredient brand, PrimaLoft has immense potential to impact positive change across our industry.”

And Joyce said: “Our company purpose is to balance the intersection of people, products, and the planet. Anne embodies these beliefs and brings extensive leadership experience from renowned active lifestyle brands. This is an ideal opportunity to bring in a proven leader to help bring PrimaLoft forward to the next level and, for me, she was the clear choice.”