The North Face appoints new VP for EMEA region

VF Corporation (VF), a company specialising in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories, has appointed Jan Van Leeuwen to the position of vice president and general manager of The North Face, EMEA Region. Van Leeuwen, who joins from its sister brand Vans, will also serve on the Global Leadership Team for the brand. Van Leeuwen will lead The North Face brand and its business in EMEA by “translating the global strategy into effective consumer engagement and marketplace execution”. He will be tasked with driving the brand’s momentum and building on its 11 consecutive quarters of double-digit growth in the EMEA region. Since joining VF in 2011, Van Leeuwen has held various roles within the Vans brand, EMEA, including most recently holding the same duties as VP and GM. Prior to joining VF, Van Leeuwen held senior leadership roles for companies including Sole Technology, O’Neill and Nike. Martino Scabbia Guerrini, group president, VF EMEA, said: “During his tenure with VF, Jan has demonstrated strong leadership and an ability to develop a thriving business. His extensive experience in the retail industry combined with his proven track record of business results make him the ideal person to lead our iconic The North Face brand in the EMEA region.” Van Leeuwen said: “As an avid runner and skier, the outdoors are very close to my heart. I’m thrilled to join The North Face, the leading brand in the global outdoor industry. In collaboration with the brand team, I’m looking forward to unlocking new opportunities, both on and off the mountain, through new and innovative products that empower people to push the boundaries of exploration.”