POC Names Ben Coates Managing Director For North America

POC, a leading manufacturer of ski and cycling helmets, eyewear, apparel and protection, has appointed cycling industry veteran Ben Coates as Managing Director for North America. Coates joins POC following fifteen years at Trek Bicycle. In his new position, he will lead sales, marketing, customer service and operations efforts for POC’s wheels and snow business in the North America.

“Ben brings a set of skills and knowledge that can only be gained in over a decade of leadership at one of the world’s iconic cycling brands,” said Jonas Sjögren, POC CEO. “At POC, we have many exciting years ahead of ourselves, and we are fortunate to have Ben leading the team in Park City.”

Coates began his career as the Head Mechanic for the Gary Fisher Professional Mountain Bike Team. Over the past fifteen years he held multiple positions at Trek Bicycle including Team Liaison and Product Manager, before leaving as the Director of Road, Speed, Cross and Project One Custom Bicycles.

"I couldn’t be happier to join the POC team. With a bold mission to reduce injury in the sports that I love, joining the POC team and helping to further that goal is a unique and inspiring opportunity,” said Coates. “Ten years ago, POC came in with a unique design aesthetic and an unapologetic commitment to its mission. I am extremely excited to be a part of a committed group of passionate skiers and cyclists doing something great for people in their sports.”

POC is coming off a successful launch of its 2018 snow collection in January, earning the ISPO Gold Award for its Obex SPIN ski helmet which will launch in North America this fall. Coates will begin his work with the Swedish brand on February 26, after he relocates to Park City, Utah with his family from Colorado.