Stepping up, Charlie Bird new CEO of Hyde Sails

To continue its growth trajectory requires a robust business model, experienced leadership, and diverse product says Hyde Sails, and that’s why it’s appointed Charlie Bird as its new CEO.

Bird comes from a sailing background and brings over 20 years of marine brand development experience and expertise to Hyde Sails. He spent 16 years at Musto, specialising in product development, production, brand, and cost management. In December 2019, Bird launched his own company, Wuzzos, designing, manufacturing, and selling sailing footwear. The brand won a NOVO innovation award in 2021 and was also nominated for the British Yachting Awards 2021 for its deck shoe personalisation.

Integrating Wuzzos into Hyde Sails presents Hyde with an opportunity to access a business that has shown strong resilience to combat challenging times of the global pandemic, Brexit, and the conflict in Eastern Europe. The products are a seasoned fit for sailors across the world and will benefit from the established distribution channels that Hyde Sails already operate.

“My remit is to reinforce the sail making heritage of Hyde and generate new business outside of sails. It is a fantastic opportunity to build and lead a team empowered to achieve this,” says Bird.

Nigel Grogan, Hyde Sails’ MD, moves to chairman, maintaining ownership and control.

“Charlie has demonstrated exceptional brand development skills to navigate Wuzzos through three years of turbulence. His industry experience will play a key part in building a foundation for a step change in our growth,” says Grogan.