REI names its first-ever chief supply chain officer

REI Co-op has expanded its senior leadership team.

The outdoor apparel and gear retailer named Sylvia Wilks its first senior VP, chief supply chain officer, effective May 23. In the newly created role, she will be responsible for the strategic leadership of REI's end-to-end global value chain. She will partner with leaders across the company to develop the supply chain network of the future, to best serve its members and support the co-op's growth.

With more than 25 years in the retail, food and beverage, and consumer product industries, Wilks joins REI from TireHub, a wholesale distributor and startup. Her supply chain and direct procurement leadership also includes prior roles at Kimberly-Clark and Starbucks Corp.

In other appointments, REI named Minnie as VP, general counsel and corporate secretary, effective May 31. She joins REI from The Walt Disney Company, where she served as assistant general counsel. Prior affiliations include Campbell Soup Company and the law firm, Dorsey & Whitney.

Alexander will have oversight of the management, development and operations of REI's legal division and serve as the corporate secretary. She will lead and help implement REI's strategies by integrating legal considerations into the company framework, plans and execution.

“Sylvia and Minnie join our team from customer-centric organizations that are deeply focused on creating best-in-class experiences,” said Eric Artz, REI Co-op president and CEO.  “Their talent will help REI deliver on our promise to inspire and enable a life outside for everyone by serving our members, employees and broader outdoor community. As we grow to a 50-million-member community by 2030, their leadership of our supply chain and legal functions will be instrumental."

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