The changes continue at up-and-coming brand Depactus, which announced a new CEO today.
Craig Stevenson, a former top executive at Quiksilver and a significant investor in Depactus, is moving to Orange County from Australia to take on the CEO role, replacing Bruce Beach who is leaving to pursue other interests.
Bruce’s departure comes after another top Depactus executive, VP of Sales Tom Ruiz, recently left the company to take on a new job at Salty Crew.
Depactus Co-Founder and Co-Manager Luke Egan remains with the brand.
While still a very young brand, Depactus has gotten excellent placement at top specialty accounts and portions of its line, particularly boardshorts, have been well received by consumers. See the official press release below.
Press Release:
Depactus Co-Founder, CEO & President Bruce Beach is stepping down today from his active role with the company he started in his garage with Co-Founder Luke Egan 2 ½ years ago. Beach will retain his membership interest in the brand and sit on the Advisory Board of Depactus.
Beach commented “I am very proud of the Depactus team and what Luke and I have been able to accomplish since launching at the Agenda Trade Show in July 2014. I want to thank our MEP’s “Men of Extraordinary Pursuits” that include Mark Healey, Matt Meola, Ry Craike, Fisher Heverly and Chris Christenson for their commitment to the brand; and our sales reps for placing us in the top specialty retailers and also want thank every supplier, vendor and retailer that is supporting Depactus.”
In order to focus on other pursuits, Beach is handing over the CEO reins to one of Depactus’ first investors and Asia Pacific Licensee for the brand, Craig Stevenson. Craig was with Quiksilver for over 20 years, his last role being the global COO and Brand President in 2012. Craig will be moving to San Clemente to build upon and the brand’s foundation and lead the brand as its CEO and Co-Manager. Co-Founder, Luke Egan, who will continue in his role as Chief Brand Officer and Co-Manager. Beach continued, “Craig knows exactly what it will take to accelerate manage Depactus’ growth and maximize the full potential of our brand. Luke has been one of my best mates for over 20 years and will continue to be just that in addition to being Craig’s right hand man.”
Luke Egan commented, “Bruce and I have been lucky to be a part of two great brands (Arnette and Electric) since their inception and acquisition by strategic partners (B&L Eyewear-Luxottica and Volcom-Kering). I wish Bruce luck with the next chapter of his career, its been a great ride over the years.”
