Colorado-based apparel and accessories brand Topo Designs has appointed Matt Williams as chief executive officer.
Williams, previously the company’s chief operating officer, succeeds co-founder Mark Hansen.
“As a co-founder, Mark profoundly impacted our company, and we hold deep gratitude for his vision and leadership,” Williams said in a news release. “I look forward to our continued collaboration as he lends his expertise through the board of directors.”
The transition is effective immediately, with Hansen retaining his involvement on Topo Designs’ board of directors, supporting strategic growth initiatives, including retail expansion and forging wholesale partnerships.
Williams joined Topo Designs as chief operating Officer in 2019. According to a release, he has helped oversee critical business functions, including supply chain management, procurement, customer experience, information technology, human resources, legal, and accounting.
His strategic initiatives and process enhancements have contributed to successful brand growth, and Williams played an integral role as Topo Designs secured funding from Gart Capital Partners in March 2023, according to the company.
Williams will continue to provide operations leadership as he works alongside co-founder Jedd Rose to build the organizational structure to support the company’s ambitious growth objectives.
“I look forward to the integrated leadership that Matt will bring to our team,” said Jedd Rose, co-founder and president at Topo Designs, in a release. “We have complementary skill sets and he’s the perfect partner to help bring the brand and our mission of The New Outdoor to the next level.”
Alex Gart, a partner at Gart Capital added, “Matt will be a great leader for Topo Designs. His operational contributions and delivered results have been immense, though his team-building capabilities and leadership characteristics are his most impressive attributes. We’re excited to collaborate with Matt, Jedd and the wider team as we invest in our direct-to-consumer, retail and wholesale channels and partnerships.”
Before his tenure at Topo Designs, Williams served as vice president of operations at Exxel Outdoors, where he supported brands Kelty, Sierra Designs, Ultimate Direction, X20, Wenzel, and Slumberjack. Beyond his professional pursuits, Williams is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys skiing, camping, kayaking, and hiking.
