REI Co-op names chief people officer, new leadership promotions

By

Jennifer Braun

Published
Mar 21, 2023

Specialty outdoor retailer REI Co-op announced last week the appointment of Apple Musni as its new chief people officer, along with the promotion of two leaders to new positions.

As chief people officer, Musni will be responsible for the full expression of REI’s people-first strategy and the progress of best-in-class experiences for its employees, among other tasks. 

She joins REI Co-op from Chipotle Mexican Grill, where Musni was most recently vice president, field people experience and recruiting. Prior to that, she led HR and operational functions at McDonald’s and Target Corporation. 

“It is a privilege to join the REI team and support amplifying how the mission of the co-op comes to life through its employee experience. I am passionate about the co-op’s purpose of awakening a lifelong love of the outdoors for all and its belief that time outside is a human right,” said Musni. 

“I have admired REI over the years as it continues to receive accolades for ‘best places to work’, lead with its values through statements and action, and launch offerings that focus on what matters most to its people—like the REI Access Plan. Anyone who works in HR knows that REI is the gold standard for how it invests in and cares for its employees.” 

Moreover, Chris Speyer has been promoted to senior vice president, chief merchandising officer, and Isabelle Portilla has been promoted to vice president, co-op brands, both effective immediately. 

As the co-op’s chief merchandising officer, Speyer will continue REI’s industry-leading efforts in innovation and sustainability. He joined the co-op in 2017 as vice president of Co-op Brands, REI’s private label known for innovative design and responsible manufacturing. In 2021, Speyer’s role expanded to include leadership of REI’s merchandising teams.

Likewise, Portilla joined the co-op in 2017, leading product strategy and design for Co-op Brands. In her new role as VP, she will help accelerate Co-op Brands’ growth to the largest, most sustainable brand in the company’s assortment. 

REI is headquartered near Seattle. It is the nation’s largest consumer co-op, with a growing community of 21.5 million members. It currently operates 181 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia.