Zhik appoints German Olympic sailor and strengthens sales team

Technical water apparel firm Zhik has strengthened its regional sales team with the appointment of Johannes Polgar as European sales manager, Josh Toso as North American sales and growth marketeer, and Tristan Walker-Hutt as UK & Ireland sales and product manager.

“We have seen unprecedented growth globally over the last few years, and I am confident that Johannes, Josh and Tristan are best placed to support our dealers and distributors across the regions, as we continue to push this trajectory,” says Zhik CEO Mat Belcher.

German Olympic sailor Polgar said of his new role: “I am enthusiastic about inspiring customers, dealers and distributors to deepen their connection with the Zhik brand.”

Walker-Hutt, who has been working with Zhik for over 10 years, is a double European Champion. He is now responsible for the brand’s growth in the UK and Ireland, alongside becoming global product manager.

“I have built a true affinity with the Zhik brand over its 20-year history,” he says. “This new role will allow a tailored approach to core and new accounts, developing an already strong retail network. For me, this is the next step in what has been a 20-year journey and I’m looking forward to working with established and new partners around the UK, Ireland and rest of the world, to bring Zhik’s cutting-edge gear to all who love the water.”

Toso is a veteran of the USA sailing community, and, with the 2028 Olympics being hosted in the USA’s home waters, the brand says it hopes to leverage his relationships within the Olympic community.

“I am hugely excited to join the Zhik team, continuing to support the community and sport that I love so much,” says Toso. “I have long admired the Zhik brand and look forward to supporting the dealer network in North America, helping their local business grow to better support their regional sailors.”

Toso will be headquartered at Zhik USA’s new location on Bellevue Avenue in Newport, RI, and will be supporting all dealers from the Rockies east, and throughout the US.