Just weeks after debuting its first-ever denim collection, outdoor outfitter and apparel manufacturer Filson welcomed a new leader to the team.
Paolo Corinaldesi joined the Seattle-based company this week as its new CEO, marking the brand’s sixth CEO in its 124-year lifetime. In his new role, he will be responsible for operations, finance and sales, and will work closely with Tom Kartsotis, founder of parent company Bedrock Manufacturing Company, who will lead brand marketing, product and merchandising.
Corinaldesi joins Filson as part of his role as global strategist with retail group WP Lavori, which made a multimillion-dollar investment and partial acquisition deal with Filson last year. Previously, Corinaldesi was CEO of Woolrich International, where he spearheaded efforts to merge the brand’s U.S. and European business, grew international partnerships and oversaw the development of the brand’s retail sales network. His new role puts him back in the executive seat at an outdoor apparel manufacturing company.
“After Woolrich, I thought that my time as an executive was over, but when the opportunity to join Filson came along, I couldn’t say ‘no,'” said Corinaldesi. “Filson has a very special history and holds a unique place in today’s market. I am excited to join this great team and continue to grow the brand through new product innovations, expanding our retail footprint and building our international presence.”
His appointment will help further the company’s aggressive goals for 2021, which include international expansion and new product offerings like the new denim line. In December, Filson debuted a collection of three jeans styles for men, including the rail-splitter straight-leg jeans made from either Italian denim or a limited-edition Japanese selvedge denim, and the bullbuck double-front jeans made of 14.5-oz., 100 percent cotton denim. The collection ranges from $145-$225 and is available now on the Filson website.
