Aqualung Group, owner of the Aqualung, Apeks, Aquasphere, Omer, Military Professional, Stohlquist and U.S. Divers dive equipment and watersports brands, has named Scott Rittschof president of its North American business. His appointment, effective Aug. 15, marks the beginning of a new phase for the group as it seeks to solidify its position as the global leader in diving and expand its freediving, swimming, snorkeling and paddling segments. The executive chairman of the board, Bruno Cercley, who joined Aqualung Group in June 2022 from Rossignol, will put Rittschof in charge of the North American business, which accounts for half of the group’s sales. Rittschof is expected to elevate the entire brand portfolio across retail and digital, modernize the distribution model and expand brand engagement to appeal to more consumers across all touch points as part of the group’s strategy.
Most recently, Rittschof served as vice president of the bike division at Pierer E-Bikes North America. Rittschof joined Pierer Mobility AG in 2021 when the company acquired the Felt brand from Rossignol. In this role as a senior member of the strategy team, he led the acquisition of the company and the transition to the new owner. Previously, Rittschof held leadership positions at Pon Bicycle Group and Cycling Sports Group.
Rittschof joins Aqualung as the group nears the completion of a multi-year transformation that includes a modernized operating model, new global locations and major investments to establish its brands as market leaders. Rittschof will be based out of Carlsbad, California, the company’s North American headquarters.
