Leading media network Outside has promoted Alan Crisp to Vice President and General Manager of its Cycling Group. He succeeds Pinkbike founder, Karl Burkat, who is stepping aside following a transition period after Outside acquired Pinkbike last summer.
A release from Outside noted… ‘Formerly the group’s Senior Sales Director, Crisp assumes leadership of the world’s largest media network and community serving the entire spectrum of cycling enthusiasts.’
With daily coverage of professional and enthusiast news, gear, and skills across the disciplines of road, gravel, and mountain biking, Outside’s Cycling Group claims a reach of 62 million unique riders each year. Its brands include Pinkbike, CyclingTips, VeloNews, Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, as well as Trailforks, a leading GPS app for cyclists.
“We’re delighted to elevate one of our most talented leaders at a moment of tremendous growth in the sport,” said Robin Thurston, CEO of Outside.
“Alan is respected in the industry as a creative and collaborative business partner whose relentless drive for innovation has led to the launch of such initiatives as the Pinkbike Academy television series and the Pinkbike Racing UCI World Cup junior development team.”
In his new role, Crisp will continue focusing on business development and brand relationships for Outside’s cycling properties. Additionally, he will manage the group’s editorial teams, working with veteran editorial directors Brian Park, who leads mountain-biking content, and Brad Roe, who oversees road and gravel content.
“We are very grateful to Karl [Burkat] for leading these brands through the transition,” added Thurston, “not to mention the turmoil of COVID and endless supply chain disruptions.”
Amy DuBois Barnett, Chief Content Officer at Outside, said “Alan’s business acumen is well-known, but his vision for our brands and strategic ideas for audience engagement may be his secret super power.
“I look forward to working with him to make our cycling content even more inclusive and visually dynamic, and to find new ways to provide value to our Outside+ members.”
“I’m incredibly excited and humbled by this opportunity, and grateful to Karl, Amy, and Robin for their confidence,” said Crisp.
“As a former downhill racer, I know there will be any number of obstacles in the path ahead, but we have a brilliant opportunity to accelerate our momentum by leaning into growth areas like gravel, e-bike, and women’s cycling.
“I’m also bullish on the power of video and creator content, and I expect our group to benefit from the resources Amy is putting behind our newly launched Outside Studios division. In that effort, I’m so lucky to partner with Brad and Brian, two of cycling’s most experienced creative leaders.”
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