Outdoor equipment and apparel brand Black Diamond Equipment has appointed Heath Christensen as vice president of North American sales.

Christensen will report to Neil Fiske, brand president for Black Diamond, who joined the company in February.

In a statement, Fiske said, “It’s a big win to have Heath returning to Black Diamond to lead our sales efforts. He is one of the most respected leaders in our industry and his return is a testament to his deep connection to and passion for our brand. Heath’s experience, knowledge, and understanding of Black Diamond will allow us to focus, energize, and accelerate our initiatives to grow North America.”

This comes as Salt Lake City-based Clarus Corp., the parent company of Black Diamond, reported in February that overall sales dropped 11.8% in the fourth quarter, partially because of inventory overhang at the company’s North American retail accounts.

Christensen comes to the role from Cotopaxi, where he formed the company’s first wholesale team and helped grow what was then a small, direct-to-consumer company into a recognizable international brand.

Prior to that he was Black Diamond’s director of sales for North America from 2015 to 2017, leading strategy on business plans for the region’s pro and wholesale channels. From 2005 to 2014, Christensen led sales operations and key accounts for Black Diamond.

Christensen also worked at Petzl America as sport division manager.

Bart Schaneman can be reached at bart@ordaily.outdoorretailer.com.