KEEN Welcomes New Director of Manufacturing to Portland, Oregon Factory

Claire Juttelstad brings wealth of manufacturing and operations experience to management team and KEEN’s ‘American Built’ focus.

PORTLAND, Ore. (Jan. 14, 2015) – Continuing its drive and dedication to innovation, design, and manufacturing in America, KEEN is adding new leadership to its manufacturing. Today, KEEN, maker of original hybrid footwear, welcomes Claire Juttelstad to the family as Director of Manufacturing for its Portland, Oregon factory. No stranger to managing high-level manufacturing operations, Claire will oversee all stateside production and champion KEEN’s ‘Assembled with Pride in Portland, Oregon’ passion.

“Claire is a proven female leader to join the KEEN team, and we are proud to welcome her to oversee our American Built manufacturing,” said Steve Meineke, KEEN President. “The timing couldn’t be more perfect as we increase our investment in American Built production and our commitment to creating innovative, high-quality footwear in the USA.”

With a focus on manufacturing premium quality products through efficient and streamlined production, Claire will oversee all facets of the Portland factory’s operations including: engineering, quality, production, cost, and inventory.

Prior to joining KEEN, Claire was Director of Manufacturing Engineering and Quality at Benchmade Knife Company. There, she created and managed the company’s strategic equipment roadmap, mentored teams, and implemented Lean Manufacturing projects. Claire was Director of Danner Manufacturing at Lacrosse Footwear. At Danner, she achieved significant improvements in factory metrics in the areas of production, cost, and quality.

“I am excited to be part of the KEEN team, and to apply my experience creating sustainable and effective domestic manufacturing to operations at the KEEN Portland factory,” said Claire. “KEEN’s investment in building footwear in America is a tremendous opportunity for the company, and the community.”

KEEN believes in the future of localized manufacturing and is proud of its American Built program which uses the finest materials from around the world to assemble premium footwear with best-in-class quality, fit, and comfort.

In addition to investments in its American manufacturing, KEEN recently strengthened its global supply chain and executive team leadership with key hires in support of Steve Meineke, KEEN’s new President.  



About KEEN

Inspired by a love of the outdoors, KEEN Inc., manufacturer of hybrid outdoor and casual products, including footwear, clothing, and accessories, is dedicated to creating quality products that support the lifestyles and outdoor adventures of active people around the world. KEEN products can be found online and through more than 5,000 retail locations in more than 60 countries, as well as in KEEN Garage retail stores in the U.S., Europe, and Asia, where fans can enjoy the branded experience. The company operations and culture reflect a stand-out commitment to building a strong community and a healthier planet so that all can create, play, and care.

Learn more at http://www.keenfootwear.com.

MEDIA CONTACT: Keith Cozzens | Verde Brand Communications | keith@verdepr.com | 970.259.3555 x122


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