Sanuk, a division of Deckers Brands, announced that Jeff Kelly (JK), founder of the Sanuk brand, will be transitioning from an active role at the brand at the close of the year.
Kelly's decision reflects Sanuk’s progress in expanding its management team and resources to support the next stage of the brand’s growth. Sanuk will continue to be led by Jake Brandman, president of Sanuk, who has been in the position since 2011.
Since being acquired by Deckers three years ago, Sanuk has added 35 employees and now has a team of over 50 people contributing to all areas of its business including: marketing, merchandising, design, development and domestic and international sales. The team is focused on extending the brand’s product offering to support its transformation into a global lifestyle brand. Sanuk is also tapping into the powerful resources of Deckers Brands, which is committed to supporting the brand and driving innovation in the consumer experience through a robust Omni-Channel strategy.
“It was JK’s vision, creativity and passion that supported the brand’s success as a major player in the surf and specialty market arena,” Brandman said. “That founding DNA will always be a fundamental part of the Sanuk culture. JK’s energy will live on in our organization and continue to inspire our vision for the future. We wish him all the best as he embarks on the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
Kelly said he is "super stoked on the team in place at Sanuk."
"They are totally capable of taking the brand to the next level,” says Kelly. “As for me, I love the thrill of starting new things and constantly challenging the status quo which is exactly what my next venture, TeaofaKind.com, is designed to do. I will always consider Sanuk to be part of my family and look forward to seeing what the future holds for everyone.”
