Vibram Promotes Vibram FiveFingers Sales VP to GM

In an effort to address the spectacular growth of the minimalist footwear industry, Vibram today announced its promotion of Michael Martin (shown) to General Manager of Vibram FiveFingers and Finished Goods – North America. Martin previously served as Vice President. In addition, Vibram has promoted Senior Retail Marketing Associate Michael O’Brien to marketing manager.

“Michael Martin was instrumental in the growth and success of Vibram FiveFingers in North America.” explained CEO and President Michael Gionfriddo. “With this promotion we are recognizing his past efforts and also utilizing his expertise to address demand and competition in a rapidly growing category. Also, with his retail marketing experience, Michael O’Brien brings another crucial dimension to the role of marketing manager, enabling us to closely measure the pulse of our customers. He has been a great leader to the marketing team,”

In his new position, Michael Martin will oversee sales, profitability, design and development, distribution and sourcing. Michael will also support global sales, marketing, sourcing and distribution of Vibram FiveFingers. Michael O’Brien will be responsible for developing and managing a holistic approach to marketing, aligning both the FiveFingers and Vibram’s soling business as well as global alignment of the Vibram brand.

Vibram® is recognized worldwide as the leader in high performance soles for outdoor, recreational, work and fashion footwear and is relied on by the world’ s greatest climbers and athletes. In 2006, Vibram introduced its first finished product: Vibram FiveFingers ®, a revolutionary and patented glove-styled shoe, an unrivaled alternative to conventional footwear. Recognizing the company’s pioneering efforts in minimalist footwear, Time magazine named Vibram FiveFingers one of the best inventions of 2007 in the category of health. The company is committed to promoting and confirming the health benefits of near barefoot or natural running and fitness training, and views this as a unique opportunity to help redefine athletic footwear. Vibram® soles have set the standard since Vitale Bramani created mountaineering’s first rubber lugged sole in the late 1930’s. Vibram® soles have gone on to conquer Mt. Everest, K2 and a host of the world’s tallest peaks. Today, the company works with premium brands including Danner, La Sportiva, Lowa, Merrell, Red Wing, Scarpa, The North Face, Timberland, Vasque, Wolverine and many more.
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