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Gear Product Manager at Giant Bicycles

Project Management

I am passionate about helping individuals discover the transformative power of adventure, whether that’s on two wheels, through outdoor exploration, or by embracing new challenges. With over a decade of experience in the outdoor industry, I am dedicated to connecting people with the right tools to pursue their passions. My journey began with competitive mountain biking and has since led me to explore the world through cycling, hiking, overlanding, and other outdoor pursuits. I’ve had the privilege of pedaling along California’s rugged coastline and biking through the French countryside for charity, as well as leading various adventure trips—from bikepacking to community rides. I’ve also learned directly from industry leaders in the United States, Europe, and Asia, which has provided additional perspectives about product development and the global market. These experiences have fueled my commitment to innovation and improvement, both in the cycling industry and the broader outdoor community. In my career, I’ve developed expertise in product line management, product design and market research, pricing, purchasing, competitive analysis, sales, and community engagement. I thrive in dynamic, fast-paced environments, where problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity are essential. I believe that adventure, in all its forms, is about pushing boundaries and making meaningful connections with nature, the communities we encounter, and the landscapes that inspire us. A deep dedication to public lands and conservation drives my work and exploration. I believe in the importance of preserving these natural spaces for future generations, ensuring they remain accessible to outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. I am always seeking new ways to inspire others to embrace adventure, discover new horizons, and pursue their own journeys—no matter where they may lead. Let’s connect if you’re passionate about cycling, overlanding, the outdoors, or creating products and experiences that leave a positive impact on both individuals and the environment.

• Manage Gear product line of owned brand and third-party items in the U.S. market, including bike gear, rider gear, components, casual and performance apparel, and accessories. 

• Draw on deep understanding of market demand and evolving consumer needs as well as developing competitive analysis to determinea strategythath informs item mix, color variations, pricing, and product positioning. 

• Work with Business Manager and Purchasing team to drive revenue in Gear program, utilizing third-party data and internal reporting. Continuously refine the Gear lineup based on the latest sales data and market insights. 

• Oversee product life cycle from item creation to initial QC, launch, and through to discontinued status. 

• Drive product development for in-house projects in tandem with Product Design and Engineering teams. Collaborate with Marketing, E-commerce, and Sales teams to develop a go-to-market strategy for new products, including pricing, asset creation, and merchandising. Notable launches include the global H2Pro bikepacking bag line and the first-ever men's and women’s Cuore apparel across the MTB, Gravel, and Road segments. 

• Develop and maintain third-party vendor relationships. Identify, evaluate, and negotiate new vendors/ new products with a keen eye on margin. Key partners include Kuat, SRAM, Maxxis, Feedback Sports, and Unior Tools. 

• Perform strategic market travel to understand current performance and identify emerging industry trends per region. 

• Create and deliver product training presentations tothe  Sales team, retail partners, and other stakeholders to support product launches and season updates, duringthe  Giant Retail Academy, and at key events and trade shows throughout the year. 

• Built a repository of Product resources. Generate sales tools and other materials, including an internal FAQ database, Top 100 selling items by category, compatibility charts, timelines, and full product details.

Gear Product Manager

Gear Product Specialist

• Responsible for purchasing all third-party products for the e-commerce site.  Built relationships with representatives from brands, distributors, and OE partners such as QBP, Hawley, H2, Hutchinson, WTB, Shimano, and Lezyne. 

• Analyzed sales performance to identify and stock top-selling items while phasing out slower-moving inventory.  Worked in tandem with the Product Manager to forecast product needs and negotiate competitive pricing from vendors. 

• Attended trade shows such as Interbike, Eurobike, Sea Otter, and Frostbike to identify key trends and connect with strategic partners. 

• Educated internal sales, creative, warehouse, and customer service teams about new products to ensure seamless acquisition into the system, onto the website, throughout the customers' buying experience. 

• Highlighted new products to customers through email blasts, blog pos"s, and “Gear Corner” YouTube series.  Used performance metrics, including click-through rates and sales conversions, to optimize content. 

• Oversaw the showroom at the company headquarters.  Merchandised dual retail and event space to ensure that the latest parts, accessories, and bikes were positively represented.  Stepped in to provide sales assistance on the floor as needed. 

• Engaged the local community by organizing weekly group rides and co-hosting quarterly meet-ups.

Buyer / Inventory Specialist

• Ensured that new, returning, or prospective customers had a positive experience by effectively communicating and recommending relevant products or services to fit their needs.  Quickly resolved any issues or concerns by identifying the root cause, offering solutions, and expediting any changes. 

• Streamlined process and communication for customer sales orders, service tickets, and in-house marketing invoices. 

• Utilized NetSuite and Shopify to open and maintain customer accounts and check inventory and order statuses. 

• Created a playbook for the department on how to respond appropriately to customer concerns or challenges. 

• Trained new hires and mentored them throughout my tenure.

Customer Experience Specialist

• Actively sold appropriate outdoor gear to meet both customers' personal goals as well as internal sales numbers.  Input orders, processed payments, and created accounts. 

• Provided customer support related to product specs, warranties, promotions, and returns.  Kept detailed notes inthe internal ordering system for colleagues' reference and ease. 

• Continuously increased technical, product, and industry knowledge.  Received brand downloads and training from companies, including Salomon and CamelBak.

Customer Solutions Representative (Gearhead)

•   Served as a frontline communicator with customers; booked courses and processed custom orders. 

•   Coordinated events and seasonal marketing campaigns; handled logistics with scheduling, vendors, and facilities. 
•   Monitored industry trends online; used knowledge and activity to project consumer interest in courses and merchandise.  Enacted Facebook advert campaign to increase brand awareness and drive course attendance. 
•   General administrative duties included shipping & receiving and office supply management.

Program Assistant

Find out detailed information about Anthony Olson, Gear Product Manager at Giant Bicycles in Thousand Oaks, California

Anthony Olson: Gear Product Manager at Giant Bicycles in Thousand Oaks, California

Anthony Olson

Concordia College