BOSTON, MA (BRAIN)—BMC has hired Karim Pine as general manager of its U.S. subsidiary.
Pine, who most recently worked as marketing director for Cadence Cycling and Multisport, replaces Fabio Selvig.
Selvig was hired in late 2009 to set up BMC’s U.S. subsidiary after the Swiss brand parted ways with its exclusive distributor, QBP.
“After going direct in the U.S. market in 2010, we have great momentum,” Frank Aeschbacher, global head of sales at BMC in Switzerland, said in a press release. “Karim is the ideal person to further lead the team in a structured expansion mode and build brand and distribution. Karim’s experience in the bicycle and apparel business will help us to find the right tactical approach for the U.S. market with the close support of the European headquarters.”
Pine also previously worked as a territory manager in the Northeast for Cervélo. He said his first order of business as general manager is expand the customer service team and refocus sales efforts in order to grow BMC’s dealer base and increase revenue in the U.S.
“We’re looking for a new sales rep in the Florida/Southeast territory. That’s one of the things we’re going to do. We’re going to add to the sales structure and reevaluate the territories,” Pine said. He said the existing team of independent sales reps won’t change.
Selvig said when he came on board with BMC 18 months ago, the agreement was to set up the operation and make sure it was running smoothly before potentially transitioning to new leadership.
“I stepped out having left BMC in a strong position in the U.S., and I’m ready to hand over the reins to a new general manager,” Selvig said.
Selvig is currently pursuing other opportunities in the industry. He can now be reached at Fselvig@yahoo.com.
—Nicole Formosa
nformosa@bicycleretailer.com
