Leading US e-bike manufacturer Zero Motorcycles has appointed Samuel Paschel as its latest chief executive. He replaces Richard Walker, who abruptly left the company in July last year.
That seven-month hiatus isn’t the first time Zero has been unplugged from managerial electricity for a significant period. Walker originally took charge in 2012, some 16 months after founder Neil Saiki severed his own connection.
New Zero spark-meister Paschel was formerly chief commercial officer of Skullcandy, after senior management roles at Burton Snowboards and Giro Sports Design. He is described as an enthusiastic motorcycle owner, rider and amateur mechanic.
Philippe Amouyal of private equity investor Invus Group, Zero’s financial backer since its inception in 2009, welcomed his appointment. “The entire board is delighted that Sam is taking the helm of Zero Motorcycles,” said Amouyal. “His leadership and management acumen will help Zero’s experienced management team further accelerate the industry transformation it is leading.”