Kamik Names New COO, Steeve Côté, To Lead Global Operations

Côté Brings 30 Years of Industry and International Experience to Canadian-Based Footwear Brand

MONTREAL--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kamik, a leading Canadian footwear and apparel eco-manufacturer, today announced the appointment of Steeve Côté as Chief Operating Officer. In his new role, Côté will lead Kamik’s global operations including supply chain management, manufacturing, and logistics. This is the latest hiring development for Kamik as the brand continues to bolster its leadership and grow its storied 120+ year heritage into the future.

Côté brings over 30 years of industry knowledge in Operations and Supply Chain Management with extensive experience in the Quebec market among many other international sectors. Starting his career as a consultant in logistics, distribution, and manufacturing process optimization, Côté has taken on multiple operation leadership positions across industries including pulp and paper, pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and fashion. Côté was most recently the VP of Operations at Joseph Ribkoff, an important player in the Canadian fashion industry, managing manufacturing activities across Canada and Europe alongside distribution initiatives in over 64 countries worldwide. Côté previously worked at Lise Watier from 2009-2016, holding the position of VP of Operations at this time of his departure.

“Steeve is a proven leader with considerable success scaling operations, and I am confident his leadership and vision will help us continue to evolve Kamik into the future,” said Gillian Meek, CEO of Kamik since September 2021. “Not only does Steeve bring a diverse range of experience across industries and management practices, but his years of expertise in international markets will benefit Kamik’s operations and support our accelerated growth objectives.”

The Kamik brand was built in 1898 by the Cook family, who have since been dedicated to delivering the utmost comfort and quality to families. With sustainability a key component of Kamik’s purpose, several new initiatives and leadership hires have been underway as the company seeks to build upon its Canadian heritage and continue reducing its carbon footprint across the globe.

“I am very excited and proud to join the Kamik family and to contribute to the continued success of this great Canadian brand as the brand approaches their 125^th anniversary in 2023,” said Steeve Côté, COO of Kamik. “Not only do they have an impressive legacy manufacturing footwear right here in Montreal, but their dedication to environmental protection and sustainability is deeply aligned with my personal values.”

About Kamik:
Kamik is a leading footwear and apparel eco-manufacturer offering versatile footwear and apparel to keep the whole family warm, dry, and comfortable year-round. True to its 120+ year Canadian heritage, Kamik has a special connection with the outdoors with a belief that the best conditions to go outside are all conditions. With a deep commitment to sustainability, Kamik aims to deliver a range of products that deliver maximum performance with minimal impact on the environment. Kamik boasts a century-long history and about 400 employees in its plants across Québec, Ontario and New Hampshire. Kamik footwear is available in over 10,000 outlets in more than 40 countries. Learn more at http://www.kamik.com and follow Kamik on Facebook and Instagram.

About TorQuest:
Founded in 2002, TorQuest Partners is a Canadian-based manager of private equity funds. With more than C$3 billion of equity capital under management. TorQuest invests in middle market companies and works in close partnership with management to build value. To learn more about TorQuest Partners, please visit www.torquest.com.