After a quarter-century with Amer Sports鈥攎ore than half of his storied 45-year career in the snowsports industry鈥擬ike Adams will step down at the end of 2021, the company has announced.
Adams, who joined Amer in 1996, will retire from his position as vice president of winter sports equipment for Salomon and general manager for Atomic on December 31. He will serve as senior adviser through June 2022.
鈥淭he consummate professional, Mike leaves an undeniable legacy and reputation for Amer Sports, our brands, and himself within the winter sports and outdoor industry,鈥 said Jordan Judd, Salomon North America president and general manager. 鈥淎lthough he will be truly missed, we are excited for Mike and for the next chapter of his life. As he plans for his transition, we are grateful for his leadership in establishing incredible momentum and market strength for both Salomon and Atomic.鈥
Adams鈥 career with Amer dates back to July 1996 when he joined Salomon in Georgetown, Massachusetts as senior VP of hardgoods. He went on to hold myriad leadership roles with both Salomon and Atomic. Adams has led the winter sports equipment portfolio for the last decade, boosting sales and market share for the brands in North America.
As senior adviser, Adams will support 鈥渂oth the Atomic and Salomon brands on day-to-day transitional topics as well as some key strategic projects.鈥 Amer said the brands will announce their respective succession plans in the coming weeks.
鈥淭his past year I have reached some important milestones in my personal and professional life,鈥 Adams said. 鈥淎mong the most meaningful has been the celebration of 25 years working for Amer Sports and the Amer brands, Salomon and Atomic. In that time, I have had incredible opportunities and experiences both in North America and abroad. I have worked with iconic brands and most importantly worked with amazing people. In the last two years, we have put Salomon and Atomic on solid footing to continue as the worldwide leaders in winter sports equipment. Now I will be taking the next steps in my journey. I am looking forward to finishing off a strong 2021 performance as well as entering this next phase.鈥
Amer Sports, a subsidiary of the Chinese giant Anta Sports Ltd., is also the parent company of such outdoor brands as Arc鈥檛eryx, Armada, Suunto, and Peak Performance. Amer is based in Helsinki, Finland, with North American headquarters in Ogden, Utah.