Billabong International Limited
(ASX:BBG) has announced the retirement of Ed Leasure, the driving force behind the brand’s US success.
Mr Leasure came to Billabong in 2008 following the acquisition of his Quiet Flight stores in Florida. He has since held a range of senior positions within the group with Billabong CEO Neil Fiske describing Ed’s leadership as pivotal in the resurgence of the brand.
Shannon North will now head up the Amercias retail operations with Jeremy Hale to oversee emerging brands.
Mr Leasure will step down at the end of January but remains on as a consultant and ambassador. He plans to spend more time surfing.
Billabong reported a net profit of $2.5 million in the 2015 financial year.
