Columbia Sportswear Company (NASDAQ: COLM) has announced the appointment of two new co‑presidents as part of a long‑term leadership succession plan.
Effective November 12, 2025, Peter J. Bragdon will serve as President, overseeing international business and the Mountain Hardwear, prAna and SOREL brands; Joseph P. Boyle will serve as President, Columbia brand and North America business.
Chairman & CEO Timothy P. Boyle will retain his roles while transitioning operational accountability gradually as part of the multi‑year plan.
This move reflects a deliberate strategy to build leadership depth, disperse responsibility across key business segments (domestic vs international), and position the company for ongoing growth in the active‑lifestyle and outdoor apparel space.
Given the increasing complexity of the omnichannel ecosystem—where outdoor gear brands must integrate digital storefronts, direct‑to‑consumer operations, wholesale partners and international markets—this management structure aims to ensure targeted focus and faster decision‑making.
Operationally, Bragdon’s remit over international and growth brands (Mountain Hardwear, prAna, SOREL) suggests Columbia is placing heavy emphasis on accelerating segmentation, global expansion and margin improvement. Boyle’s oversight of the core Columbia brand and North America signals stability at the heart of the business amid change.
For stakeholders, the clarity of this succession plan is a positive signal. It offers continuity, mitigates leadership risk, and aligns with the company’s promise to scale globally while deepening its direct‑to‑consumer and retail‑distribution capabilities.
