Hello Mike. Firstly, could you give us a bit of background about yourself and your role at North?
I am the Brand Director at North. Responsible for all product development, marketing and branding, privileged to be based here in Auckland. I am responsible for the brand’s look, feel and tone but more importantly the performance of our products. I work closely with our Product Manager, Uli Sommerlatt, who is the lead for North’s product development. I also work closely with Holley Butler, our very talented Marketing Manager who looks after the brand marketing.
You’ve been in the wind and water sports industry for over 30 years. What have been the most significant highlights during your tenure?
Kitesurfing exploded into the windsurfing world in the late 90’s. It was just awesome to see people jumping on board with a new sport, a new way of harnessing mother nature and to ride more efficiently. When it comes to foiling, I started hydrofoiling with snowboard boots in 2002. Watching the rise of foiling over the past 10-15 years and most recently winging in the past two years, has been hugely enjoyable. Each new sport has brought about a massive change. Every time I see someone getting into a new sport, to see the buzz, the excitement and the stoke, it’s an amazing feeling.
I guess the older I get, the more I realize the best part of my job is getting people on the water. Giving
