Varsity Brands, the company that empowers young people through sport, spirit and achievement, announced the appointment of Adam Blumenfeld as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Blumenfeld, 46, had been serving as CEO of Varsity Brands’ BSN SPORTS division for the last ten years. Over that period, he led BSN SPORTS to its current position as the nation’s largest provider of team uniforms and sporting goods to schools, leagues and municipalities.
[Related: BSN Sports Acquires Marlow Sports, Inc.]
Terry Babilla, who has served with BSN SPORTS for more than 20 years – including the last 15 as president – will continue as president while succeeding Blumenfeld in the executive leadership role.
Varsity Brands’ Founder and Chairman, Jeff Webb, stated, “I have known and worked with Adam for many years. He is highly qualified to lead Varsity Brands as we continue our focus on growth and operational excellence. I am confident Adam will help Varsity Brands deliver on its mission of empowering the students we serve and building school spirit.”
Andrew Janower, Managing Director at Charlesbank Capital Partners, added, “Varsity Brands’ three great businesses – Varsity Spirit, Herff Jones and BSN SPORTS – are high-performing leaders in their respective markets, and Adam is the right leader at the right time to facilitate and nurture their distinct competitive strengths while championing Varsity Brands’ shared values and potential. We are delighted to welcome him as Varsity Brands’ CEO.”
Blumenfeld concluded, “This is an enviable time in Varsity Brands’ evolution, as our three operating businesses benefit from clear missions, excellent leadership and, increasingly, new avenues for growth and opportunity. The power of these businesses – combined with targeted investments that empower the Varsity Brands mission of improving the lives of young people – has never been stronger. I look forward to working with our three businesses to drive the company forward in a way that builds enduring value for employees, customers and all stakeholders.”
Varsity Brands is a portfolio company of Charlesbank Capital Partners and Partners Group.