Kontoor Brands Taps Arc’teryx Executive to Lead Helly Hansen’s North American Sport Business
Event summary
- C.J. King joins Kontoor Brands as General Manager of Helly Hansen North America Sport, effective August 31, 2026.
- King previously held senior roles at Arc’teryx, including VP Global Commercial and VP/GM North America.
- He will report to Børre Hegbom, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Helly Hansen.
- King’s experience includes leading wholesale and retail channels in North America and advancing global commercial strategies.
The big picture
Kontoor Brands’ appointment of C.J. King underscores its strategic focus on the North American outdoor market, the world’s largest. King’s background in high-performance apparel and equipment positions him to leverage Helly Hansen’s premium brand strength. The move comes as Kontoor Brands seeks to drive growth across its portfolio of iconic lifestyle, outdoor, and workwear brands.
What we're watching
- Market Penetration
- How King’s experience at Arc’teryx will translate into strengthening Helly Hansen’s position in the U.S. outdoor market.
- Commercial Strategy
- Whether King’s focus on technical outdoor consumers will drive sustainable growth for Helly Hansen’s Sport business.
- Brand Evolution
- The pace at which Helly Hansen can evolve into a balanced, consumer-led marketplace model under King’s leadership.