Filium Appoints Bruce Harrell As CEO, Expands Advisory Board To Drive Global Growth
Filium Corp., has announced a major leadership transition and the formation of an expanded Executive Advisory Board as the company looks to accelerate global growth in sustainable textile technologies.
The Seattle-based material science company confirmed that former Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell will take over as Chief Executive Officer, succeeding co-founder Raj Shah, who will continue as Chairman of the Board.
Filium develops PFAS-free textile technologies designed to provide water repellency, soil release and odor resistance while maintaining fabric breathability and hand feel. The company said its technology is aimed at reducing water and energy consumption while extending fabric lifespan.
Filium’s technology has recently been adopted in product lines sold by brands and retailers including Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, O’Neills and The North Face.
Commenting on the transition, Bruce Harrell said, “Raj Shah and his brother Ahkil Shah’s decades of leadership in the apparel and textile industry, combined with their deep understanding of sustainability and innovation, have positioned Filium at the forefront of a transformational movement in material science.”
“I am honored to step into this leadership role at such an exciting moment for the company and the industry. Consumers and global brands are demanding products that perform at the highest level while reflecting modern environmental and wellness values, and Filium is uniquely positioned to help lead that evolution,” he added.
Harrell further stated, “Filium’s game-changing and award-winning technology is designed for every fabric type and every community. I am thrilled to join the team that is bringing this revolutionary approach to sustainable, innovative textiles to its next stage with new retailers, brands, and consumers.”
Doug Lynch, President of Filium, said Harrell’s leadership experience and focus on innovation and AI integration would support the company’s expansion strategy.
Alongside the leadership change, Filium announced the expansion of its Executive Advisory Board with the addition of senior executives from the apparel, retail and sports industries. New members include Bob Philion, former President and CEO of Puma North America and COBRA PUMA Golf; Laurie Black, former President of Nordstrom Rack; Chris Overholt of Vinik Sports Group; and Badri Narayanan Gopalakrishnan, founder of Infinite Sum Modeling.
Larry Miller, Chairman of Jordan Brand at Nike and a member of Filium’s Board of Directors, said, “The Shah brothers decades of stellar success in the apparel industry and with Bruce Harrell’s highly accomplished background will accelerate company’s mission.”
Investor Brian Levine said the company is positioning itself as an innovator by combining textile performance with sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Chairman Raj Shah added, “These leadership and organizational changes, coupled with their novel AI applications, reflect Filium’s unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability and long-term industry leadership.”
