Patagonia Inc. – a growing outdoor clothing company whose unique mission is to build the best product, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis – is pleased to announce some key changes and hires in its German team as continuous efforts in strengthening its European team.
Michael Austermühle (46 y.o) joins Patagonia as the new Country Manager Germany and Austria, reporting to Gianluca Pandolfo, who joined as European Sales Director in May. Austermühle will lead and manage the Wholesale business across Germany and Austria and support the retail and e-commerce strategies in the region. Austermühle was most recently Country Manager for Germany for The North Face where he has worked since 2008. Before joining the VF Corporation Austermühle held various sales and key account management roles with O’Neill, H20 sportswear and Benger Sportswear’s in Germany. Austermühle is passionate about cycling, running and skiing.
“Michael has the ideal combination of experience, skills and passion to lead Patagonia’s brand and business in this important market going forward. He understands the needs of our dealer partners and has a deep appreciation for the values and mission of the brand.”, says Gianluca Pandolfo, European Sales Director.
Long-time Patagonia employee and former Country Manager for Germany & Austria, Norbert Sandner will take up a new role as Patagonia’s European Alpine & Climbing Manager. In this new role, Sandner will manage and promote the European Alpine & Climbing business within Europe by partnering with the Marketing, Sales and Product teams across the business ensuring alignment of the Alpine & Climbing category between wholesale, retail and marketing departments.
Laura Hoppe (35 y.o) has been appointed to the position of Environment & Marketing Coordinator Germany. Hoppe joined Patagonia in 2009 and has company experience in Marketing, Retail, Sales and environmental initiatives. She is a passionate hiker, snowboarder and environmentalist.
“We are excited to have Michael, Norbert and Laura taking on of these important roles. These changes are part of our broader strategy to develop the brand and business across Europe; Germany is a critical part of that plan. I want to specifically thank Norbert for his service to our dealer partners in Germany over many years. With a life defined by climbing and skiing, I cannot think of anyone better positioned to support our alpine and climbing business.” says Ryan Gellert, European GM.
INFO: Patagonia
