Voit to Join Element
Frank Voit was named as the global general manager for Irvine, Calif.–based skate label Element. Element is owned by Australian surf giant Billabong International Ltd., and in previous statements Neil Fiske, Billabong’s chief executive officer, has noted Element will serve as a pillar of the company’s rebound efforts.
Voit, a Billabong veteran, has worked as general manager of Billabong’s Element and RVCA brands in Europe since 2007. He will move to Orange County in mid-2015 to work with Element founder Johnny Schilleriff. Voit will help direct the global strategic direction and execution of the brand. He also will help direct the label’s design, merchandising and marketing efforts, according to a Billabong statement.
Schilleriff said that he was pleased with the selection of Voit. “I’m amazed by what he has done in Europe. But, just as important, he knows the brand and how to build it. He and I have developed a strong working relationship over the years, a true give and take. He has always respected my vision, Element’s DNA and honored our mission statement. He has always put Element first and stuck with us through our most triumphant and turbulent times. It is yet another clear sign that our new executive team is making positive change to the organization, respecting the vision of the founders and listening closely to the needs of the business. I am very grateful for Neil’s guidance and leadership and honored to have Frank Voit assume this vital role,” Schilleriff said in a statement.
In late 2013, Billabong emerged from a year of turmoil marked by proxy battles and declines in the company’s stock value on the Australian Securities Exchange. At a shareholder’s meeting, Fiske said that the company’s leading brands—Element, RVCA and Billabong—would lead the efforts to revive the company’s fortunes
