Stephen Blackband

Sales & Partnerships Leader | Driving Growth, Brand Engagement & Strategic Collaborations · Primal Wear

Denver, Colorado

In My Own Words

I’ve always been drawn to the power of connection—whether it’s between brands and consumers, businesses and partners, or teams working toward a common goal. Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for driving growth through strategic partnerships, sales leadership, and brand development.

With extensive experience in sales, licensing, and business development, I’ve worked across industries spanning sports, retail, and outdoor markets. From collaborating with major brands and retailers to developing merchandise programs for large-scale events, I thrive on finding opportunities that create lasting impact. Whether it’s forging new relationships, optimizing sales strategies, or elevating brand presence, I bring a dynamic, results-driven approach.

What excites me most is the challenge of growth—helping businesses expand their reach, build meaningful partnerships, and unlock new revenue streams. I’m always looking ahead to the next opportunity where I can apply my experience, creativity, and strategic mindset to make a real difference.

I’m always open to connecting with others in the outdoor and retail sectors to share insights, explore creative solutions, and discuss new ways to bring value to our industry.

Work Experience

Sales Manager

Primal Wear

2022 – 2025

At Primal Wear, I led efforts to strengthen partnerships, drive brand growth, and develop engaging sales strategies within the cycling and outdoor industries. My role focused on building long-term relationships with key retailers and event partners, ensuring mutual success and lasting impact. Developed and nurtured strategic partnerships with national and global brands, driving brand recognition and creating new business opportunities. Collaborated with retailers and event organizers to create impactful merchandise programs, optimizing sales and brand presence at large-scale events. Implemented sales strategies that resulted in sustained growth, fostering loyalty and expanding market reach across key business segments. Cultivated an environment of teamwork and innovation, working across departments to align product offerings and marketing strategies with evolving market trends.

Senior Account Executive

Primal Wear

2015 – 2022

Account Executive North East Territory

US National Sales, Marketing and Operations Director

Whitedot Skis US

2015 – 2021

At Whitedot, I was responsible for driving sales and forging new partnerships within the outdoor sports and apparel sector. My role involved working closely with distributors, retailers, and brand ambassadors to expand Whitedot’s reach and market presence. Built strong relationships with distributors and retail partners to enhance product visibility and drive sales in the outdoor apparel market. Collaborated with product teams to ensure alignment of sales strategies with the brand’s core identity and market positioning. Identified and pursued new partnership opportunities, expanding Whitedot’s footprint in emerging markets and elevating its brand presence. Managed key accounts, ensuring strong communication and high levels of satisfaction, while consistently exceeding sales targets. Developed and implemented strategies that supported the company’s long-term goals, including brand awareness and customer retention.

Sales and Marketing Representative

Bambool Thermics LLC

2014 – 2015

Worked with business owners business to develop plan for strategic retail growth of a start-up athletic outdoor apparel brand Developed and implemented retail sales strategy from inception Identified, cultivated and maintained relationships with retail account buyers/owners Serviced accounts inline with clients needs, through sales/order tracking and targeted areas for business growth Facilitated education of retail staff on the company products and identity Managed territory travel on limited budget Collaborated in grass roots marketing campaigns, assisted with digital marketing including email and social media

Sales and Marketing Consultant and Photography Assistant

K Web Creative

2012 – 2015

Assisted business owner with the conception of print and digital campaigns, including drip marketing and strategic promotions for web design and creative photography business Assisted with the fulfillment of photo retouching, creation of print material and creative email elements, using Adobe Creative Suite Assisted with shoot management, timing, set up and break down Acted as client liaison for business during shoots and office hours

Sales and Customer Service Representative

Powder7

2014 – 2015

E-commerce and retail, customer service and sales Delivered competent and detailed outdoor product knowledge to assist customer with product selection Assisted with maintenance of shop blog, writing relevant product reviews for online customer base Assisted with daily website updates, listing products on Powder7.com Assisted with analysis of sell through data, market prices for use with future product orders

Online Sales & Marketing Consultant

HomeAdvisor

2014 – 2014

Used consultative sales process consistently closing new business, hitting sales targets and goals Developed new opportunity sales leads through cold calling, prospecting for business and email marketing strategy Presented products to new and existing customer base Advised account holders on product selection for best fit business needs and increased HomeAdvisor’s account retention Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software Knowledgeable in Pipeline/Prospect management, building and developing relationships and referrals for business growth

Training Manager

Alpine Meadows Ski Resort

2012 – 2014

Created, managed and assessed an extensive staff-training program, successfully improving company’s 5-star service standards, technical knowledge and sales abilities, all within a set budget Developed and delivered program that significantly improved team member technical knowledge, product comprehension, sales, and customer service skills Increased sell through for other departmental products and services Upon assessment of company needs, worked through multiple departments and personnel, training frontline staff and communicating with department leads to improve the delivery of sales, service and marketing exposure for specific identified products Liaised with brands and their representatives and encouraged partner relationships to provide further development opportunities Initiated the development of scholarship funds to assist staff receive continued professional development Delivered presentations through various means, including; live presentations (small and large group format), web and video

Operations Manager & Retail Sales Lead

Tahoe City Kayak

2013 – 2013

Assisted with training retail team members, guides and rental staff, included programing and liaising with outside agencies for training program delivery Managed inventory and staffing of 3 high volume locations, ensured high-level guest service and timely delivery for tours Executed retail, tour and rental operation sales from initial customer contact thru sale completion Worked with brand representatives and store management to create consumer displays, improving product presence and sell thru Assisted customers with warranty and product returns

Greenskeeper

Castle Pines Golf Club

2012 – 2012

Golf course maintenance. Bunkers, fairways, approach, rough and Greens.

Ski Instructor

Telluride Ski Resort

2008 – 2012

Taught group and private lessons Consistently up-sold lessons with self-marketing, sustaining a high level of customer satisfaction. Developed and maintained a regular clientele by building strong relationships, maintaining connections through emails and social media. Taught and attended training sessions to peer instructors while working toward the PSIA Trainers Accreditation