BOULDER, Colo. (Feb. 27, 2025) – ORTOVOX, a global leader in mountain safety and alpine
gear, has announced that Stefan Kohlbauer will assume the role of chief executive officer (CEO), effective March 1. Previously serving as director of sales and marketing and possessing extensive leadership experience in the outdoor, sport and fashion industries, Kohlbauer brings a dynamic vision for growth, innovation and sustainability.
Kohlbauer’s leadership signals an exciting evolution for ORTOVOX, as the brand reaches new mountain athletes with updated mountainwear collections, continues to practice its responsible manufacturing ethos, and strengthens its retail partnerships. His appointment follows a transition period during which Martin Riebel, managing director of Schwan-STABILO Outdoor GmbH, provided interim leadership.
“Stefan Kohlbauer is a very experienced industry expert with a profound understanding of the brand and the markets and a clear vision for the future of ORTOVOX,” says Riebel. “His focus on sound growth, sustainability, innovativeness, and collaborative partnership will further strengthen our brand. I am particularly glad that we have been able to enlist an internal candidate for this important role.”
Kohlbauer, a passionate alpinist based in the Tyrol region, shares his enthusiasm for ORTOVOX’s next chapter.
“ORTOVOX stands for top quality, unmistakable design, innovation, and responsibility — not only in our products, but also in the way we collaborate within our team and with our partners,” says Kohlbauer. “I feel particularly honored to be given the opportunity to help shape the future of this unique brand. I’m looking forward to writing the next chapters in this success story along with the ORTOVOX team, our partners and our dealers.”
As ORTOVOX continues to grow in the U.S., Kohlbauer’s leadership will drive further innovation in avalanche safety, merino wool apparel and technical mountain gear—ensuring the brand remains a trusted partner for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.
For more information, contact Andrea Green at andrea.green@rygr.us.
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ABOUT ORTOVOX
Founded in 1980, ORTOVOX is a leading German mountain brand renowned for its expertise in avalanche rescue equipment and wool apparel designed for various mountain activities. The brand is dedicated to protection and comfort in the mountains while prioritizing responsible practices towards people and nature. ORTOVOX’s commitment to safety extends to its employees, animals on its Tasmanian merino farms, and eco-friendly product manufacturing. For more information, visit www.ortovox.com.
Contact:
Andrea Green
Senior PR Account Manager
(970) 236-1668 ext. 2196
