KIALOA Paddles Appoints Jim Miller as Director of New Business Development

BEND, Oregon – KIALOA Paddles, building innovative SUP, Outrigger and Dragon paddles for over 24 years, today announced that Jim Miller has been named to the new position of Director of New Business Development, effective April 1, 2015.

Reporting to KIALOA's CEO and President, Meg Chun, Jim Miller is responsible for the strategic direction and management of new business. He will oversee the company’s expansion into new product channels and help craft retailer and consumer-centric initiatives.

“KIALOA is known throughout the industry for producing high quality and innovative paddle designs. With Jim in this new position we intend to look beyond SUP, Outrigger and Dragon Boat and into other categories that speak to our customers around our theme of "Products for Paddlers,” said Meg Chun.

With 30 plus years of experience in the outdoor industry for some leading brands such as Yakima Racks, Dagger Kayaks and Werner Paddles Jim has specialized in new product development and communications. He has also been on the other side of the retail equation as a partner in Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe with stores in Portland and Bend, Oregon. Most recently, Jim was a consultant with his own business, Retail Revision, where he worked with retailers on strategic planning, operations and communication.

“I am thrilled to join KIALOA and excited to work with this talented team to grow the brand," said Miller. "The world of paddle sports is changing with greater expectations by consumers. They are looking for unique products, compelling brand stories and at once information. With the resources and expertise at KIALOA we are primed to surprise and delight our retail partners and consumers. There is such a strong foundation and love of the KIALOA brand by its fans and a great jumping off point for other products. There is so much to come from this great family owned business."

About KIALOA Paddles

The KIALOA employees live like they paddle by following the guiding principles of their core values: Po'okela (excellence), Laulima (teamwork), and Mālama (stewardship).

These values drive everyday decisions, and were born out of the employees’ paddling experiences. The energy created by like-minded people can lead to amazing things. At KIALOA, the team understands what it takes to make something big, move forward and make it happen. They are honored to do their part to help and appreciate those who have helped along the way.