For several years during his 15-year run with Nike, Eddie Benford managed the sportswear giant’s Taipei, Taiwan, apparel office.

It’s just one highlight, executives said, from a multi-decade career in global sourcing management – experience Benford now brings to Counselor Top 40 supplier Outdoor Cap Company (asi/75420), where he has been named head of product.

Eddie Benford, Outdoor Cap Company (asi/75420)

“Benford’s expertise and innovative outlook will enhance our leadership in headwear, aligning with our core values and driving continuous improvement and high-quality solutions,” the Bentonville, AR-based company said in a statement.

Benford’s work for Outdoor Cap Company will focus on designing and executing effective sourcing, product development and manufacturing strategies – all areas where he has a strong background, according to executives.

“With a proven track record of establishing quality relationships, achieving significant cost savings and maintaining a focus on product development and quality, Benford is poised to contribute significantly to Outdoor Cap’s success,” the company said.

Beyond Nike, Benford’s past positions include being a global sourcing manager for Sears Holdings Corporation, director of sourcing and international business for bike maker Strider Sports International and director of sourcing and program management for surf-and-sand apparel brand TravisMathew.

In business for more than 45 years, Outdoor Cap Company serves about 14,000 customers in verticals that include team sports, promotional products and retail. Based on reported 2023 North American promotional product revenue of $54 million, the headwear maker ranked 37 on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry.