Chris Speyer is a merchant, product leader, and owner-investor with over three decades in outdoor and specialty retail. He currently serves as Chief Merchandising Officer at MEC, Canada’s leading national specialty outdoor retailer. His focus is primarily on product strategy, assortment development, private label execution, and brand development across MEC’s 24 stores and e-commerce channel. Prior to MEC, Chris spent seven years at REI, most recently as Chief Merchandising Officer / Senior Vice President. Prior to REI he has held senior leadership roles in the cycling industry including CEO of Accell Group North America and EVP at Raleigh Bicycles USA.
Chris has also served the broader industry as Board Chair of People for Bikes and President of the Bicycle Product Suppliers Association. He has been awarded a lifetime achievement award by both organizations. He has strong convictions about the value of the specialty outdoor channel and the role that it plays in creating great outdoor experiences for customers.
When he’s not working, he’s most at home on a trail in the mountains with his family or friends.