The North Face Announces Key Leadership Changes at Sales Agency Partner

May 27, 2016

Sales leader Ed LaJoy retires after 23 years with The North Face

Alameda, CA – The North Face today announced Ed LaJoy, Principal of The Skylark Group, brand sales agency partner for the Rockies territory, is retiring. Kari Larsen, employed with The Skylark Group for more than 13 years, is assuming responsibilities for LaJoy under the newly formed Summit Sales Group.

LaJoy most recently served as Principal of The Skylark Group for 14 years, leading a team of 17 employees. He started with The North Face 23 years ago in sales and management roles, eventually taking over the Pacific Northwest and Alaska, then being promoted to Director of Sales (Western US) before starting Skylark Group. He received numerous Vendor of the Year awards including Cabelas and The Sports Authority.

“Ed has been a tremendous partner for us,” said Tony Erlick, Vice President of Sales at The North Face. “We are grateful to him for his successful leadership and team development in the Rockies and wish him great success in his next endeavor.”

Kari Larsen, employed with The Skylark Group for more than 13 years, is assuming responsibilities for LaJoy. She will lead the Rockies territory as President and Principal of newly formed Summit Sales Group. Partnerships with outdoor specialty retailers, running, action sports and sporting goods stores have grown significantly during the past 14 years, and the agency will continue leadership and resources for the region.

“Kari’s history with The North Face as sales director has given her a unique insight and understanding of our business,” continued Erlick. “I am confident that her experience with The North Face and our parent company, VF Corp., will enable her to continue to foster strong relationships with existing partners and propel dynamic growth in the territory to the next level.”

Summit Sales Group will continue to cover five states (Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Wyoming and Montana). The agency is based in Golden, CO.

“I would say my greatest pleasure has been working with the many great people within The North Face organization and existing dealer base,” said LaJoy. “Everyone put so much care and energy into the long term protection of the brand. It’s been an honor to be a part of and I wish Kari and the team great success.”