BlackStrap Hired Randy Torcom as Vice President
The Bend-based company appointed the former executive to oversee its brand and product strategy.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in People
BlackStrap has hired Randy Torcom to serve as its new vice president of brand and product. He will work alongside general manager Chris Vaday to direct the company's go-to-market efforts.
Why it matters
The appointment marks a strategic transition for the organization as it sharpens its focus on its winter product lines. This leadership change aligns the company's internal hierarchy to support its core offerings in the competitive outdoor market.
General manager Chris Vaday brings over 30 years of experience in outdoor and action sports markets to the firm. Additionally, Torcom and Vaday previously worked together at Dakine for nearly a decade.
The players
Randy Torcom
He is the new vice president of brand and product who previously worked for the company from 2022 to 2024.
Chris Vaday
He serves as the general manager of BlackStrap and has over 30 years of experience in the outdoor industry.
BlackStrap
This is a Bend-based company that specializes in manufacturing outdoor and winter sports products.
The details
Torcom leads brand, product, and go-to-market strategy while collaborating with Vaday to manage the company's direction. His background includes prior leadership roles at Burton, Anon, Dakine, Ride Concepts, and a stint as CEO at Worthy Brewing.
Timeline
Randy Torcom previously held a vice president role at the company from June 2022 to June 2024.
Chris Vaday was promoted to general manager in April 2026.
Randy Torcom rejoined the company in October 2026.
Market Landscape
The hiring of industry veterans reflects a broader trend of companies prioritizing seasoned leadership to navigate the Pacific Northwest outdoor gear sector. This move helps the firm strengthen its market share against competitors by leveraging deep experience in product development.
Consumers can expect a more unified brand identity as the company pivots its business toward specialized winter products. This internal realignment will likely influence the range and availability of products offered to local customers in the upcoming season.
The takeaway
Bringing back former executives with deep industry ties allows companies to stabilize their strategy during periods of growth. Readers can look for how these veteran leaders influence the focus and quality of the gear available in their local retail shops.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership changes, visit the People section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sgbonline.
