Lewis Hardy President and CEO
Recognized as one of the top brand development and merchandising executives in the industry, Lewis has been a driving force behind colleges and universities realizing the power of branding. He provides the overall leadership and strategic vision for LRG, and works closely with many of the company's clients to create opportunities for increased retail presence and royalty revenue for the university. He is well-known among both university and athletic administrators and coaches, and spends time regularly visiting college campuses, working with both licensees and retailers, speaking about branding and merchandising, and proudly cheering for LRG clients.
Prior to joining LRG, Lewis was instrumental in several of Champion Products' marketing and brand management campaigns in the athletic, bookstore and corporate divisions while serving as an executive with the company for 18 years. Lewis began his career with the Colgate/Palmolive Sports Division, which owned 21 sports-oriented companies. He has worked with the NBA, NFL, MLB, NCAA, USOC, NHL, ASA and many other recreational organizations over the years in developing their uniforms, marketing programs and brands.
Lewis received two degrees from North Carolina State University while competing on the Wolfpack baseball and basketball teams. He is a former member of both the NC State Board of Visitors and the North Carolina State Textile Foundation.