Kona Bicycles has announced the appointment of Charles Russell as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2026. Russell succeeds co-founder Jake Heilbron, who previously held the position, marking a strategic leadership transition aimed at ensuring the company’s long-term stability and growth. (bicycleretailer.com)
Joining Kona in the spring of 2025 as Chief Revenue Officer, Russell collaborated closely with the company’s founders and senior leadership to advance the business following its return to independent ownership. His extensive experience in the bicycle industry includes senior roles at organizations such as Rocky Mountain, Yeti, Cannondale, Sugoi, and POC. (pinkbike.com)
In May 2024, Kona’s co-founders, Dan Gerhard and Jake Heilbron, reacquired the brand from Kent Outdoors. Since then, they have focused on stabilizing the business, rebuilding the team, and reestablishing Kona’s dealer-first sales approach. This period marked the beginning of “Kona 3.0,” reflecting the company’s reset under private, rider-owned control. (bicycleretailer.com)
Russell’s appointment as president and CEO reflects a deliberate decision by the founders to invest in experienced leadership to guide the next stage of Kona 3.0, while maintaining continuity with the brand’s values and operating principles. (bicycleretailer.com)
Jake Heilbron and Dan Gerhard will remain actively involved with Kona as directors and shareholders, continuing to steward the brand’s long-term vision. (bicycleretailer.com)
This leadership change comes at a pivotal time for Kona Bicycles, as the company continues to navigate the evolving bicycle industry landscape. With Russell at the helm, Kona is poised to leverage its rich heritage and innovative spirit to drive future growth and success.