Peter Arpag
Vessel Captain/ Expedition Leader · Self-employed
Hood River, OR
In My Own Words
Collaborative leader with a proven record of achievement in organizational management, manufacturing and international distribution. An innovative problem-solver with experience in product development, marketing and sales. Open, adaptive style and strong communication skills applicable to fast-paced work environment.
Work Experience
Vessel Captain/ Expedition Leader
Self-employed2001 – 2017
Prepared, maintained, and captained 40-foot sailing vessel from Oregon to New Zealand and back. Led tight-knit team comprised of my wife and two teenage children. Travelled via Mexico, French Polynesia, Tonga, and Hawaii, experiencing many diverse cultures along the way. • Safely planned and executed navigation over 25,000 nautical miles in 2 years. • Maintained all mechanical, electrical and structural systems aboard the vessel. • Explored 9 island groups in 6 countries and at least 3 different languages.
International Brand Manager
North Sports, Inc.2006 – 2015
Hired as Marketing Director, promoted after 12 months to also lead product development. Responsible for brand development, product design, manufacturing, compliance, marketing, and profitability for global watersports brand, Aquaglide. Managed in-house staff of 20, plus numerous contractors and manufacturing partners. Full-time, salaried, reported to CEO. • Collaboratively designed innovative product range of over 170 SKU’s. • Expanded distribution to over 25 countries around the world. • Coordinated effective, geographically diverse teams responsible for development, quality control, production, marketing and global distribution. • Developed and managed timelines for product design, testing, marketing, production and distribution. • Initiated systems for documentation of product safety compliance. • Contributed to growth from $1M to over $15M USD in annual sales at wholesale. • Identified lucrative growth opportunities in aquapark and kayak categories.
National Sales Manager
North Sports, Inc.1999 – 2006
Responsible for the wholesale distribution of water sports brands Mistral, Naish and ProLimit in North and South America. Led an in-house team of 5, plus 15 shared administrative staff and groups of outside sales agents. Accountable for importing, sales, marketing, and profitability. Full-time, salaried, reported to CEO. • Responsible for $2 - $6M USD in annual sales at wholesale. • Analyzed historical data and market conditions to create sales forecasts, manage inventory and ensure brand profitability. • Developed sales programs, negotiated contracts and distribution agreements. • Built results-driven group specializing in partnership sales/ long-term relationships. • Led team through industry decline in 2000 and rapid new growth in 2001 to 2006.
