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Arc'teryxa leading outdoor clothing company, is known for its high-performance gear, especially for hiking, climbing and snow sports. The company started in 1989 with a climbing harness, and this legacy continues today, influencing its approach to product development, where safety and durability are paramount.
So says the CEO Stuart Haselden who joined the company in 2021 with a background in finance and leadership roles at Saks, J.Crew and Lululemon.
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Haselden's journey at the helm of Arc'teryx is marked by a strong foundation in finance and operations, which he developed during his tenure at various well-known brands. His experience at Lululemon, particularly in operations and finance, fueled his desire to lead a brand. His passion for outdoor sports gave him the opportunity to lead Arc'teryx, a dream job. Under his leadership, the company remains focused on its core mission: to create the best equipment for mountain athletes, ensuring their safety in extreme environments.
The CEO's military background has significantly shaped his leadership style, instilling the values of resilience, discipline and a team-first mentality. Haselden believes in leading by example, setting a clear vision for success and empowering his team to achieve it. This leadership philosophy is essential in Arc'teryx's high-stakes environment, where product integrity can be a matter of life and death. His approach to leadership also involves making difficult, often unpopular, but necessary decisions for the company's long-term success.
Under Haselden's leadership, Arc'teryx has seen significant growth and expansion, particularly in footwear, with a new design center in Portland. Despite its growth ambitions, the company remains committed to its core market, focusing on mountain sports and resisting the temptation to dilute its brand by entering unrelated markets. This disciplined approach has allowed Arc'teryx to maintain its competitive edge and continue to offer innovative products that meet the rigorous demands of mountain athletes.
Looking ahead, Haselden foresees further growth for Arc'teryx, with plans to expand its retail and digital presence globally while staying true to its brand integrity. The company aims to grow without compromising the quality and focus that have made it a leader in the outdoor industry. Haselden's leadership is driven by a passion for the brand and a commitment to ensuring Arc'teryx remains the pinnacle of outdoor gear, trusted by athletes worldwide.