SAN CARLOS, CA (BRAIN)—Steve Parke has resigned as Ritchey Design's general manager and former vice president of global marketing, as he plans to pursue new opportunities within the industry.
"My time at Ritchey has been invaluable and has shaped my perspective on how a solid business should be managed," Parke said. "Prior to my time at Ritchey, my career was built around experience gained on the bike brand side of the industry. My plans are to pursue new opportunities that take me back to those roots."
Parke came to Ritchey with a wide range of industry experience gained with brands such as Trek, Bridgestone, Serotta, Shimano Footwear, Scott USA and Descente.
Parke joined Ritchey Design as sales manager in August 1998, was promoted to general manager in 2001 and assumed additional responsibilities as vice president of marketing in 2004. Over the years, Parke participated in all aspects of the company including establishing a national sales force of independent representatives, forging several long standing industry relationships and coordinating marketing efforts to support a full spectrum of business goals.
"Steve is well known and respected among the members of the Ritchey staff both here and in the international offices, and will certainly be missed." said John Frechette, COO of Ritchey Design. "His thoughtful contributions to the management team have been very valuable and we wish him the best of luck with his future pursuits."
For the time being, Parke's day-to-day responsibilities will be absorbed by Frechette, Phil Ellinwood, CFO and Angelo DiGiovine, Ritchey senior marketing coordinator.
