Former Patagonia CEO named president of Keen

Casey Sheahan, has been appointed to head up the outdoor shoe brand. The former CEO of Patagonia takes over from Steve Meineke, who has held the post for three years.

Casey Sheahan was Patagonia CEO between 2006 and 2014. After a break of just over one year, the executive is now returning to the industry to lead Keen.

Sheahan will take over as president from Steve Meineke on November 14, who will remain a member of the Keen’s advisory council.

In recruiting Casey Sheahan, the Portland-based brand has hired an expert in sports and outdoor wear, who brings to the job 35 years of experience in the industry. He started his career as editor and then publishing director of Powder magazine, then becoming involved with some the sector’s brands. He served as category manager for Nike’s ACG, vice president of marketing for Merrell, and president of Kelty before joining Patagonia in 2005.

"We are thrilled to bring on such an experienced and respected leader to help meet the demands of our growing business and to perpetuate our values," Meineke said in a news release.

"I'm honored to be joining Keen at such an opportune and pivotal time in an ever evolving industry," Sheahan said, in the news release. "I look forward to engaging more fans through incredible product and values-based initiatives in the years to come."

Keen has made strong efforts this year to strengthen its management team, having recruited John Eberle as Outdoor, Lifestyle and Kids general manager, Tyler LaMott, vice president of Global Brand Marketing, Christy Saito as vice president of Global Product Merchandising and Rob Langstaff as vice president of International.

Keen claims a retail presence in some 5,000 points of sale in 60 countries.

Former Patagonia CEO named president of Keen

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