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Arc’teryxa leading outdoor clothing company, renowned for its high-quality equipment, especially for climbing, climbing and winter sports. The company began in 1989 with climbing harnesses, and that legacy continues today, influencing its approach to product development where safety and durability are paramount.
That’s what the CEO says Stuart Haselden who joined the company in 2021 with experience in finance and leadership roles at Saks, J.Crew and Lululemon.
Haselden’s path to the helm of Arc’teryx is characterised by a strong foundation in finance and operations, which he developed while working at various well-known brands. His experience at Lululemon, particularly in operations and finance, fueled his desire to lead the brand. His passion for outdoor sports led to running Arc’teryx, his dream job. Under his leadership, the company stays focused on its core mission: creating the best equipment for mountain athletes, ensuring their safety in extreme conditions.
The CEO’s military experience has significantly shaped his leadership style, instilling values reminiscent 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 critical in Arc’teryx’s high-stakes environment, where product integrity will be a matter of life and death. His approach to leadership also includes making difficult decisions, often unpopular, but crucial for the long-term success of the company.
Under Haselden’s leadership, Arc’teryx has experienced significant growth and expansion, particularly in the footwear segment, with a recent design center in Portland. Despite its growth ambitions, the company stays 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 a competitive advantage and proceed to deliver modern products that meet the rigorous demands of mountain athletes.
Looking ahead, Haselden anticipates continued growth for Arc’teryx, with plans to expand its retail and digital presence globally while maintaining the integrity of its brand. The company’s goal is to scale 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 stays the pinnacle of out of doors gear trusted by athletes around the world.