James Jannard is an American entrepreneur best known for founding Oakley, Inc. in 1975. Initially, he started the company by selling motocross grips, which quickly gained popularity due to their innovative design and performance. Jannard's knack for branding and marketing helped Oakley grow into a global leader in sports eyewear and accessories, known for their cutting-edge designs and high-quality products. Under Jannard's leadership, Oakley expanded beyond eyewear to include apparel, goggles, and other sports-related gear. The brand became synonymous with extreme sports and a lifestyle that resonated with athletes and enthusiasts alike. Jannard's vision transformed Oakley into a cultural icon, making it a prominent player in the consumer goods industry before it was eventually acquired by Luxottica in 2007. After leaving Oakley, Jannard founded RED Digital Cinema in 2006, focusing on creating high-end digital cinema cameras. This venture further showcased his innovative spirit and commitment to evolving technology in the film industry. Through both companies, Jannard has made a significant impact on sports, lifestyle branding, and cinematic technology.
James Jannard, an influential American entrepreneur, founded Oakley, Inc. in 1975, specializing initially in motocross grips.
His effective marketing strategies helped the brand grow into a leading force in sports eyewear and accessories, resonating strongly with extreme sports enthusiasts.
After Oakley, Jannard launched RED Digital Cinema in 2006, highlighting his continued commitment to innovation in both the consumer goods and film industries.