REI Welcomes Alex Thompson as Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs
Aug 4, 2014
SEATTLE – Leading national outdoor gear and apparel retailer REI welcomes Alex Thompson as the company’s new vice president of Communications and Public Affairs. Thompson most recently served as executive vice president of Corporate and Public Affairs in the New York office of Edelman, a highly respected global communications and marketing firm.
As a member of the agency’s Business + Social Purpose practice leadership team, Thompson led global teams specializing in integrating corporate communications, consumer marketing, reputation and crisis management, digital engagement, corporate citizenship and strategic philanthropy. He also led the firm’s brand narrative capabilities globally.
During his 11 years at Edelman, Thompson advised public and private sector clients in industries spanning energy, transportation, sports, finance, publishing, media, technology and retail. He began his career in London and later spent time in Edelman’s Hong Kong and Singapore offices before moving to the United States in 2011.
At REI, Thompson will lead the company’s Communications and Public Affairs division, and direct a broad portfolio that includes public relations, reputation management, corporate communications, philanthropy, community affairs and government relations. In addition, he will be actively involved with the co-op’s board of directors. As the company’s senior communications advisor, he will also foster productive, strategic relationships with key external stakeholders on behalf of the co-op.
About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 184 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.