Nikwax, the specialist in waterproofing and cleaning products for technical outdoor gear, has appointed Chris Field to the newly created position of commercial director. Nick Brown, chief executive, will be concentrating more on product development and accelerating the brand's sustainability projects. Brown previously oversaw the areas that Field will be taking charge of as commercial director: namely, international development and the definition and management of the company's vision and strategy. Field has experience in business development and marketing for technological companies. He will also continue Nikwax' cooperation with the European Outdoor Conservation Association, which began 12 years ago. Nick Brown, 65, plans to withdraw gradually from the company's operations. He created the brand in 1977, at the age of 22, in London. At the OutDoor by Ispo trade show, Brown was recognized for his 42 years of pioneering work within the industry with an “Outdoor Oscar,” bestowed by the German trade publication Outdoormarkt. Brown's actions and company development were described as being decades ahead of the industry, having challenged brands to consider sustainability in their business models long before corporate social responsibility became a key part of outdoor industry brand strategy. He is one of the founding members of European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) and an ambassador for the World Land Trust.

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