SQAIRZ, the pioneering force in performance technology footwear, proudly announces the expansion of its Board of Directors with the appointment of three distinguished members: Keith Bank, Bobby Barad, and Strider Elass. These strategic additions bring unparalleled expertise and visionary leadership to the company as SQAIRZ continues to propel forward into becoming a multi-sport footwear conglomerate.
SQAIRZ began its journey in the world of golf with a clear focus: to provide golfers with footwear that enhances their connection to the ground, leading to better balance, stability, and overall performance. However, as the company evolved, so has its vision. Today, SQAIRZ is transitioning into a multi-sport footwear technology company, recognizing that the principles of balance, stability, and ground connection are crucial across all land-based sports. By pioneering a unique design that facilitates ground force production, SQAIRZ is breaking the mold and redefining how athletes interact with the ground, an area that has traditionally been overlooked in footwear design. In sports, where proper movement is the key to success, SQAIRZ’s innovative approach ensures that athletes can perform at their best by optimizing their connection to the ground.
Keith Bank joins the Board bringing a wealth of experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship. As the Founder and CEO of KB Partners since 1996, Keith has an impressive track record of successful exits, including Club Champion Golf, Golf.com, Buddy Media, and more. His extensive background in early-stage technology investments across sports and other diverse industries and his deep-rooted involvement in the golf community, notably through founding the Chicago Select Golf Invitational and being a National Trustee of the First Tee, make him a valuable asset to SQAIRZ. Keith’s strategic insights and innovative thinking will be instrumental as SQAIRZ continues to revolutionize golf and sports footwear.
Bobby Barad, a seasoned sports industry executive and attorney, brings over 25 years of experience representing Major League Baseball players and negotiating over $500 million in contracts. Bobby’s expertise extends beyond athlete representation to pioneering consumer goods and service companies within the sports industry. His profound understanding of the sports footwear landscape and his innovative approach to marketing will provide SQAIRZ with a fresh perspective on expanding its market presence. Bobby’s dedication to community service, exemplified by founding Grandma Pat’s Thanksgiving, aligns with SQAIRZ’s values of giving back.
Strider Elass, Senior Economist and Partner at First Trust Portfolios L.P., brings a wealth of analytical expertise to the Board. As a key member of one of the most accurate economic forecasting teams in the U.S., his recognition by Bloomberg, Consensus Economics, and Financial Advisor IQ as a top economic forecaster underscores his exceptional ability to interpret and anticipate market trends. Strider’s deep knowledge of economic indicators,
coupled with his widely respected thought leadership, will provide invaluable insights for SQAIRZ in strategic planning and market positioning. Additionally, his extensive experience as an angel investor and board member further strengthens the Board’s diverse expertise.
“We are thrilled to welcome Keith, Bobby, and Strider to our Board of Directors,” said Robert Winskowicz, CEO & Founder of SQAIRZ. “Their collective experience and visionary leadership will help guide SQAIRZ to new heights in the sports footwear industry. These appointments mark a significant milestone as we leverage the SQAIRZ technology globally in our transition from being golf-centric into being a sports performance footwear entity.”
SQAIRZ remains dedicated to its mission of providing golfers with superior footwear that enhances performance through advanced technology and design. The addition of Keith Bank, Bobby Barad, and Strider Elass to the Board of Directors reinforces their commitment to pushing the boundaries of sports footwear and its vision for continued innovation.