REI names new leadership for IT, e-commerce

SEATTLE — Recreational Equipment Inc. haspromoted Bill Baumann and Brad Brown to SVP information technology, and e-commerce and direct sales respectively. In addition, Kathleen Peterson has been named VP REI Private Brands.

"Bill and Brad's promotions recognize the strategic importance of the information technology and e-commerce divisions to provide the infrastructure required to support REI's growth over the next five years," said Brian Unmacht, REI's EVP. "Kathleen's remarkable 25-year career with premier global brands serves her well as she leads the expansion of our award-winning branded gear and apparel offerings."

Bill Baumann joined REI in 2008 as VP information technology. He leads the rapidly-growing division that is responsible for business application services and technical support, including application development and support, personal computing, technical services and networks. Baumann is also focused on ensuring that REI's technology will drive competitive advantage in support of REI's growth.

An REI leader since 1998, Brad Brown joined the co-op as VP information technology. In 2006, he became VP e-commerce. In his role, Brown oversees REI's two e-commerce stores, REI.com and REI-outlet.com, and leads digital strategies to support sales, community engagement, outreach and membership initiatives. He also partners with the company's retail leadership to leverage REI's multi-channel approach that allows customers to shop with REI whenever and however they wish.

Following a career with adidas and Polo Ralph Lauren, Kathleen Peterson joined the REI Private Brands division as director of sourcing in 2007. She was promoted to divisional VP in August 2011. As VP REI Private Brands, she leads the design, development and commercialization of all REI-brand and Novara branded products, and industry collaboration in product stewardship. She replaces Lee Fromson, who was recently named SVP merchandising. REI's in-house team develops award-winning gear, apparel and bikes sold exclusively by the company under the REI and Novara labels in the categories of camping, hiking, cycling, urban lifestyle, travel and general outdoor recreation.