Surfing goods retailer, SurfStitch Group Limited, has appointed Nigel Philips as its new chief financial officer effective October 24.

Philips has over 20 years’ experience in finance, operations and commercial experience in action sports, sales, marketing and distribution, and will replace current CFO Karen Birner, whose resignation was announced on September 26.

Philips worked with Quiksilver for 18 years, more than half of which in the roles of CFO and COO for the Asia Pacific region.

“We are very pleased to have secured someone of Nigel’s experience across both finance and operations in the action sports category. Coming from one of our key brand partners he understands, and is well connected within the industry and will be a valuable addition to the team,” said Mike Sonand, SurfStitch CEO.

The company has also appointed Stephanie Belton as company secretary, after first being appointed general counsel for SurfStitch in September 2016.

Belton, who has over 20 years’ corporate and commercial experience in Australia and the UK including roles at Qantas Airways, P&O Group, Linklaters and Helloworld Limited, will replace Birner who also holds the position of company secretary, effective November 1.

Belton will be responsible for communications with the ASX, for the surfing retail group

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