KMD Brands appoints Rip Curl Brand Manager

Fusion Associates is delighted to announce the appointment of François Latterrade as the new Brand Manager Europe at Rip Curl, part of KMD Brands.

François Latterrade

Brand Manager Europe

Rip Curl

Rip Curl is excited to announce the appointment of François Latterrade as the new Brand Manager for Europe, effective November 4th, 2024. François will be based at our European headquarters in Hossegor, France, and will report directly to Mathieu Lefin, President of KMD Brands Europe.

François brings over 20 years of experience in the action sports and outdoor industry, having held leadership roles at prominent brands such as Quiksilver and Boardriders. Throughout his career, François has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive business growth, develop innovative product strategies, and lead cross-functional teams across Europe.

Most recently, as General Manager of Quiksilver EMEA, François was instrumental in strengthening the brand’s position in key markets by activating core initiatives. His deep understanding of consumer trends, along with his commitment to sustainability and innovation, will be key in elevating Rip Curl’s market presence across Europe.

Commenting on François’s appointment, Mathieu Lefin, President of KMD Brands Europe, shared:

“We are thrilled to welcome François to the Rip Curl family. His extensive experience in the action sports industry, combined with his passion and deep connection to our core values, makes him the perfect leader to drive Rip Curl’s growth in Europe. I am confident that his expertise will be a valuable addition to the already strong management team we have in place.”

We are confident that François’s leadership and expertise will help us continue to deliver on Rip Curl’s mission to be the ultimate surfing company, and we look forward to seeing the impact he will have on our team and brand.

Please join us in welcoming François to the Rip Curl family and wishing him great success in his new role.

Henrique Oliveira, who led the search at Fusion Associates for KMD, stated: “François’ track record in the surfing and action sports industry will undoubtedly be an asset for the brand's next stage. Thank you once again Mathieu Lefin, President of KMD Brands Europe, for the great collaboration throughout this project. Congratulations, François, and here’s to a successful journey ahead!”

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About Fusion Associates

Since 1998, Fusion Associates has been placing experienced professionals across the globe within consumer markets including consumer goods, fashion, sporting goods, healthy living and luxury.

Environmental, humanitarian, social and political concerns are close to the Partners both in and out of the business. We pride ourselves in partnering with industry leaders who wish to contribute to a better, more sustainable future. Working with global companies that are at the forefront of innovating and integrating sustainability into the heart of their business, we have helped build purpose-led teams from leadership to subject experts in biodiversity and animal welfare.