Pentland Brands names Matt Rock as new President of Americas

Pentland Brands Limited has announced that Matt Rock has taken over the role of President of Americas, overseeing Pentland’s full portfolio for the region including the Speedo, Endura and Mitre brands.

Rock (pictured above) was formerly Pentland’s President of Asia Pacific, a position he held since 2018 in which he was responsible for both the global supply chain and the regional commercial teams. During that time, Rock transformed both functions into multi-brand operations and led the development of a ‘digital first’ China strategy, resulting in a 100% growth in sales.

Rock started his career working in sales for Puma and joined the Pentland Brands business in 2005 as Sales Director for Ted Baker footwear. He was promoted to Managing Director in 2007 and, during that time, grew Ted Baker footwear sales by over 800% and increased distribution from eight to 28 markets.

Rock replaces Jim Gerson who is retiring at the end of 2022 after the successful transition of the Speedo North America business from PVH Corp. into Pentland Brands. Tom Whitmer, formerly Executive Vice President of Operations, Americas, has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer of Americas.

Jim Gerson

Speaking of Gerson’s retirement, Chirag Patel, Chief Executive Officer of Pentland Brands, said: “We thank Jim for his steady leadership throughout the transition. His knowledge, expertise, and deep understanding of people were instrumental in successfully onboarding the Speedo North America business. We wish him all the best.”

Abhy Thomas-Joseph has replaced Rock as Pentland’s President of Asia Pacific and Charlotte Cox continues in her role as President of EMEA.

In 2020, following its acquisition of the Speedo North America business from PVH Corp., Pentland Brands outlined its plans to drive an increased emphasis on sustainability and bigger opportunities for its core brands - Speedo, Berghaus, Endura, Ellesse and SeaVees.

CEO Patel added: “The acquisition and transition of the Speedo North America business means we are now a truly global organisation. With strong leadership teams now in place across our three key regions - North America, Asia Pacific, and Europe - we’re in a great position to deliver on our ambition to build a global portfolio of pioneering brands that make life better.”