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Alex Thompson

Chief Communications Officer

Alex Thompson oversees Brand Stewardship and Impact for REI. As an officer of the co-op, he is tasked with building long-term brand equity for the nation’s largest consumer co-operative.

Through internal and external communications, public policy, government affairs, sustainability and philanthropy, Alex helps REI to lead with its values. His team’s work involves engaging 12,000 employees in 154 stores, working closely with 300 non-profits, advancing sustainable business practices and inspiring 17 million REI members to pursue and enjoy “life outdoors” through initiatives including #OptOutside. Before joining REI in 2014, Alex specialized in international communications and marketing in the for-profit, not-for-profit and public sectors. He served for more than a decade at Edelman in various roles on three continents. Latterly, as Executive Vice President in New York, he specialized in connecting business strategy with social mission and impact. Alex began his career as a volunteer teacher oversees and studied politics and philosophy at the University of Leeds. He serves on the board of the Washington Environmental Council, is a member of the Arthur Page Society and recently joined the advisory board for Sustainable Brands.

Alex Thompson is tagged in 2 assets.
Video
The Path Ahead: How One Company is Galvanizing Millions

On the heels of their historic #OptOutside movement, REI launched “The Path Ahead” which captures thinking that centers around societal progress on human relationship with outdoors and nature. Outlining 8 macro trends that impact the future of so... View More

Article
Third Year of REI's #OptOutside Movement Gives the Power to the People

With the launch of its #OptOutside campaign in 2015, REI set a new precedent in retail, shuttering its stores on Thanksgiving and Black Friday, giving its employees a paid day off and – on a day that has come to represent consumerism at its most ex... View More

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