COTATI, Calif. (BRAIN) — Yuba Bicycles has hired industry veteran Pat Cunnane to serve as president of its North American operations and COO of its global business.
Cunnane's career began in the 1970's when he started doing odd jobs at a bike shop at age 12. Recently he has been a consultant for several international businesses. He is best known as the CEO of Advanced Sports Enterprises, which owned the distributor ASI, Fuji, SE and Breezer bike brands, among others, and the Performance and Nashbar e-commerce businesses. ASE declared bankruptcy in 2018.
While leading ASI, the distribution side of the business, Cunnane took it from a single brand to five and from 20 employees to 80. Cunnane also has been on the PeopleForBikes board of directors for 17 years (starting when that group was known as BikesBelong); he currently serves as treasurer.
"When it comes to the inner working of the bicycle industry as a whole, Pat has a wealth of experience and knowledge that will help fuel Yuba's plans for growth," said Benjamin Sarrazin, Yuba's CEO. "Our business has seen double-digit gains in North America every year since 2017, and I feel very fortunate to have someone of Pat's caliber leading the team to the next level."
The president and COO positions are each new for the company. Cunnane will lead the U.S. operation, including Justin Gottlieb, Yuba's sales & marketing director, and the entire team based in Cotati. Cunnane will be based in Philadelphia, where he lives with his family.
"For the last year, I've consulted for Yuba and have been incredibly impressed with the company's heritage, ethos, and the opportunity that lies ahead," said Cunnane. "Mostly, I've enjoyed getting to know the remarkable team that Ben has put together — and I'm thrilled to dive in and help grow the business."
