WHEAT RIDGE, Colo. (December, 2023) - Optic Nerve recently hired on a new Vice President of Sales & Marketing, Kevin Karch, who brings years of industry experience and fresh leadership to enable the company’s mission: to improve the world around us by making it easier for people to experience and enjoy the things they love to do in the great outdoors.
Kevin was immediately attracted to Optic Nerve’s new line of products. “They’re stylish and on trend, and they look far more expensive than they actually are. I’m excited to sell sunglasses that are this high of quality at such an affordable price point,” said Kevin.
Kevin’s determined to help customers and consumers see what Optic Nerve’s brand can offer. “People who get to know and love Optic Nerve will recognize what great value the products deliver and feel good about supporting an independent company who cares about the environment.” He plans to do this by bolstering the national sales team to gain better distribution and doubling down on consumer marketing efforts that tell an authentic brand story and garner genuine connection.
“I’m lucky to lead an amazing team who supports this vision. The blend of seasoned veterans and fresh perspective creates the perfect balance as we move our brand forward and bring our products into new doors,” said Kevin.
Meet the team:
Kevin Karch VP of Sales & Marketing
Kevin is focused on leading Optic Nerve into its next stage of growth. In his 22 years of experience, at both large and small outdoor brands like Kelty, Sierra Designs, and Native Eyewear, he’s built effective sales teams that have delivered proven results. This experience will be key to Optic Nerve’s future success. He’s excited to get Optic Nerve’s high-quality, sustainable styles into the hands of more people and build a brand that consumers love.
Mae Welker – Director of Sales
Mae has extensive experience in sales and retail marketing. She joined the Optic Nerve team in 2013 making her the longest tenured team member with a wealth of knowledge and relationships. During her time as Business Development Manager and Director of Sales, she doubled sales numbers and significantly increased distribution. As the team moves forward, Mae will continue to focus on growing key accounts as well as new channels of trade for Optic Nerve outside the typical outdoor industry players. She’s most excited about upcoming collaborations and private label opportunities with some of her favorite brands.
Lindsey Seil – Ecommerce Brand Manager
With almost a decade of Amazon / ecommerce experience, Lindsey joined the Optic Nerve team as the Ecommerce Brand Manager in August of 2023. She’s focused on understanding Optic Nerve's customers (current and future); ensuring marketing creative and goals are aligned with their mutual values. She also helps with the development of Optic Nerve's ecommerce strategy including the website, Amazon, and future marketplaces. She's passionate about storytelling through leveraging data and creative elements to help foster the brand and reach their goals. Lindsey is excited to work within this awesome team and utilize her core skills in marketing, ecommerce strategy, and data analytics.
Ethan Cotton – Marketing Manager
After growing up around the company as the son of co-owner Bill Cotton, Ethan officially joined the company in 2021. He graduated from Portland State in 2018 with a double Major in Marketing + Supply / Logistics Management. Then, he spent time at a consulting company in Portland that helped eCommerce clients optimize their online experiences. Since joining Optic Nerve, he has been responsible for overhauling the brands online presence. He helped oversee an internal brand refresh, drove a major website redesign, and now works closely with external partners to help spread the Optic Nerve message. Ethan feels most excited about growing Optic Nerve’s direct to consumer business - from establishing new social partnerships with other brands, clubs, athletes, and influencers, to being on the front line of consumer conversation and driving meaningful online growth.
David Rumptz – Business Development Manager
David has been with Optic Nerve since January 2022. He joined the team as the Marketing Coordinator out of Butler University and began by running Optic Nerve’s social media channels, working tradeshows, and running events. He has since transitioned into the Sales Department, where he works with our wholesale customers. He is excited for the future of Optic Nerve because of the product line and continued attention towards eco-friendly, inexpensive products.
The team is stacked and ready to amplify the newly refreshed Optic Nerve brand (launched in March of 2023) and help people experience high-quality sunglass styles that get them outdoors, doing what they love.
About Optic Nerve
Independently owned and proudly headquartered in Colorado since 1981, Optic Nerve Eyewear exists to create a clearer view of what matters, producing purposeful eyewear for the outdoor inspired. Headquartered in one of the most physically active states in the U.S., Optic Nerve knows what it’s like to go the extra mile and dedicates excruciating thoughtfulness around features and innovation to make sure nothing stands in the way of creating products with a little extra flare and more value, all with a steadfast commitment to sustainability and quality backed by a lifetime warranty. To learn more, visit www.opticnerve.com.