Zamberlan, the third-generation handcrafted Italian bootmaker, announces the hiring of industry veteran, Bob Whip, as U.S. General Manager. Whip’s extensive strategic business leadership experience will bolster the brand’s commitment to growth, expanded retail partnerships and continued momentum. Zamberlan has experienced unprecedented year-over-year growth for more than a decade.
Bob Whip Courtesy of Zamberlan
A long-standing leader, Whip got his start at the General Manager level leading Trek Bicycle Corporation’s International Subsidiary offices in Europe and Japan. From there, he led Johnson Health Tech North America as President, BH Fitness USA as CEO and YT Industries as President. Most recently, Whip acted as General Manager for Cervélo Cycles.
“Bob’s appointment to lead Zamberlan USA marks an exciting new chapter in our company’s journey,” said Phil Benson, outgoing General Manager. “With his proven leadership experience and strategic mindset, Bob is the ideal leader to take Zamberlan into the future as we experience exceptional year-over-year growth and charge toward the brand’s 100th anniversary.”
Whip joins the brand after an extensive search to replace Benson, who led Zamberlan for the past fifteen years. Under Benson’s leadership, the brand achieved unprecedented growth while honoring the Zamberlan family’s values and commitment to handcrafted quality, performance and comfort. Benson has taken a principal role within Private Equity in partnership with Novastone Capital Advisors, and will remain in the outdoor industry.
“I am incredibly grateful for the last fifteen years spent working alongside the Zamberlan family,” said Benson. “Dedicated to the design and manufacturing of its entire product line in Italy, Zamberlan continues to make the difficult but ever-fruitful decision to honor its legacy and take its place among the most authentic brands in the outdoor industry. I have full confidence that under Bob’s leadership, the Zamberlan brand will continue to thrive, innovate and enable adventure.”
About Zamberlan:
Since 1929, Zamberlan has manufactured high-quality, technical outdoor shoes and boots from its factory in Torrebelvicino, Italy. A third-generation family-owned and family-operated business, Zamberlan is acclaimed for highly-skilled, handcrafted construction combined with cutting-edge technologies and the most innovative materials available. Today, Zamberlan boots are globally renowned for their exceptional quality, comfort, durability, and timeless style in the tradition of fine Italian boot manufacturing. Zamberlan products are distributed in the U.S. by its wholly-owned subsidiary, Zamberlan USA, Inc.
