Filson Promotes Neil Morgan to President
SEATTLE, July 25, 2022 – Filson, the Seattle-based outdoor and apparel manufacturer, announced the appointment of Neil Morgan as President of the company. Morgan, 37, will prioritize international expansion efforts and focus on growing a brand with a 125-year heritage and a distinct position in the marketplace.
Morgan most recently served as Vice President of Business Development. He joined Filson in 2016, working in various project management, operational, and marketing roles. Filson has flourished during Morgan’s tenure, with sales growing 54 percent since 2016. As he steps into the role of President, he will expand his oversight of commercial business operations to include manufacturing, sourcing, human resources, finance, e-commerce, retail store expansion and other activities.
“It’s an honor and a privilege to take on this challenge,” said Morgan. “Filson’s storied legacy, coupled with the expansion and success achieved in recent years, provide a strong foundation for growth. I am looking forward to leading the brand during a period of transformation.”
Awenate Cobbina, CEO of Bedrock Manufacturing Company, the parent company of Filson, said, “We look forward to Neil being at the helm of Filson at a time when the brand is poised for growth and opportunity. We expect him to play a major role in the growing Filson’s brand awareness in the United States, as well as shepherd Filson’s growing presence around the world.”
Morgan’s key initiatives will include overseeing Filson’s growth in international markets, which was jumpstarted in Europe this year with the formation of a new partnership with investment partner WP Lavori. A strategy for growth in Asia will be initiated soon. Morgan will also accelerate Filson’s ongoing efforts in sustainability and conservation, including plans for zero-waste facilities and increasing sustainable material sourcing.
Alex Carleton, Chief Creative Officer, will continue to oversee product and marketing strategy, working alongside Morgan. Cobbina, whom Carleton and Morgan both report into, added, “We now have the ultimate duo in Neil and Alex working together to realize the full potential of Filson moving forward.”
“Neil’s promotion marks an important milestone in Filson’s history as we celebrate 125 years in business this year,” said Carleton, who has worked closely with Morgan in various roles. “Neil is the right person to steer Filson toward a vibrant future.”
Paolo Corinaldesi, who led the business since January 2021, will continue at Filson in the role of Chairman of the Board.
About Filson
Established in Seattle in 1897 to outfit prospectors headed for the Yukon, the company’s 125-year legacy is built upon its reputation for honesty, quality and durability. Filson’s long-lasting gear is the choice of explorers, adventurers, ranchers, hunters, anglers, engineers and anyone with a passion for the outdoors. Over a century after its founding, the Filson headquarters remain in Seattle, Washington. For more information, go to Filson.com.
About Bedrock Manufacturing Company
Bedrock Manufacturing Company is a manufacturing and design group that is home to a growing stable of design-led, global brands Shinola and Filson. Detroit-based Shinola is a design brand with an unwavering commitment to crafting products that are built to last—from timepieces to leather goods, jewelry to audio. Seattle-based Filson is known for its high-end outdoor clothing and accessories.