Xavier Simonet Departs Role As Kathmandu CEO

Simonet will leave his role as CEO of Kathmandu Holdings and pursue a new senior position in the Australian Public Service.

“I have had an awesome time at Kathmandu Holdings, where I have spent the last five immensely exciting years,” Simonet said.

“The Group has great brands, passionate teams and strong values. I am very grateful to our teams, to the Board of Directors, to our shareholders and to my Chairman, David Kirk, for their support,” he explained.

Kathmandu’s total sales have skyrocketed this year, reporting 72 percent above 2019.

Its first quarter was bolstered by the acquisition of Rip Curl. “We are realising the benefit of a diversified Group, with strong performance in summer weighted product categories for Rip Curl in all key geographies, following successful winter trading for Kathmandu,” Simonet explained last week.

“Rip Curl’s strong sales performance in its key markets of Australia, Europe and North America is very pleasing. It highlights the strength of Rip Curl’s global brand and innovative products as more people take to surfing. At broadly pre-COVID-19 levels, wholesale sell-in for Rip Curl for the second half year is also encouraging,” he said.

Simonet will remain in the CEO role through a six-month notice period. Alternatively, he can leave his role when the Board decides to discharge him.

“We are disappointed to lose Xavier, but understand his desire to take up a senior role in the Australian Public Service, for which he is very well credentialled,” said David Kirk, the Kathmandu Holdings Chairman.

“We wish him well in the important work he will undertake. Xavier has led Kathmandu Holdings through a period of growth and re-positioning of the company.

“Kathmandu, Rip Curl and Oboz are three iconic brands which together create a world class outdoor adventure company, diversified by geography, channel to market and seasonality. Xavier will remain with us for up to six months while we undertake a comprehensive search for his successor,” he said.

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