Edward Russell

Director of Product Management - Mounts, Accessories and Lifestyle

2014 – Present

Our team creates amazing new perspectives and creative solutions for the World’s Most Versatile Camera. We’ve designed solutions to capture footage from astronauts to dogs to the world’s top athletes, and our goal is to wow every user and exceed their expectations. I’d be glad to tell you more about the hundreds of products our talented team has launched, how we have improved multiple metrics in the business and developed creative solutions to address complex market challenges.

Global Category Manager

2011 – 2014

Translated the Thule Brand DNA into exciting new Lifestyle Products and Categories. My role was responsible for building and implementing global product strategy for Thule’s Packs, Travel and Photo categories and was accountable for their overall performance. Successfully launched numerous Award-Winning products. Notable Awards: 2013 iF Product Design Award - Lifestyle/Leisure- Perspektiv Daypack. 2014 Red Dot Product Design Award - Covert DSLR Backpack 2014 TIPA (Technical Image Press Assoc.) Best Camera Bag - Perspektiv Series 2014 Popular Photography POP Award - Covert Backpack

Global Category Manager

2010 – 2011

Managed a team of Product Managers, Designers, Developers responsible for some of the top-selling Bags and Backpacks in the sporting goods business. Accountable for category performance including top line revenue, gross margin and contribution margin. Results included 26% top line revenue growth and +6% gross margin. Gained extensive Japanese market knowledge through manager exchange program.

Marketing Manager

2005 – 2010

Created and implemented business plans and product strategies for Adidas Backpack, Headwear and Water-sports categories. Equal parts Product Marketing and Product Management, I managed the entire product lifecycle from cocktail napkin to grave. Gained extensive consumer-insights through conducting dozens of focus groups with a wide variety of audiences.

Product Line Manager

2001 – 2005

Responsible for managing technical snowboard accessory product line including backpacks, luggage, gloves, base layers, socks, and headwear as well as a complete range of innovative hand-tools and equipment Oversaw all aspects of the design and development process from product briefs to production. Directed all aspects of development, production, sourcing, pricing and distribution.

Sales / Marketing / Production

1996 – 2001

I wore many hats for this pioneering snowboard outerwear company that was “Made in Denver”. Roles included shipping, customer service, production, sales, marketing. Fun fact - every employee sewed clothes in the off-season.

Bachelor of Science

1990 – 1995

Calvert Hall College High School

1986 – 1989