Next Level Apparel Appoints Brett Bjorkman as New CEO

Next Level Apparel has announced the appointment of Brett Bjorkman as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. This transition follows the retirement of Joe Simsoly, the company’s founder and former CEO. Based in Torrance, California, Next Level Apparel is recognized as the leading wholesale provider of premium blank apparel, known for its commitment to ethical sourcing and quality craftsmanship.

Brett Bjorkman’s extensive career spans over three decades in the apparel industry, including prominent roles at Nike, Boardriders, and Augusta Sportswear. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer at Next Level Apparel, where he developed a comprehensive understanding of the company’s operations and values. His expertise in operations, sourcing, and sustainability positions him to effectively lead the company into its next chapter of growth.

In a statement regarding the leadership change, Joe Simsoly expressed confidence in Bjorkman’s capabilities. “After decades of building Next Level Apparel, I’m proud to pass the baton to Brett, who brings the perfect balance of brand insight and operational rigor to this role,” Simsoly said. He emphasized that Bjorkman has been deeply involved in every facet of the company over the past 18 months, making him well-prepared to uphold the brand’s legacy while driving innovation.

Brett Bjorkman has already made significant contributions to Next Level Apparel, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency and reinforcing the company’s dedication to quality and traceability. “Premium is a behavior,” Bjorkman stated. “It’s about doing things right, making products that last, and proving it.” This philosophy will continue to guide the company’s practices, from responsible fabric sourcing to customer service.

Under Bjorkman’s leadership, Next Level Apparel aims to expand its international presence and diversify its supply chain, ensuring resilience against market fluctuations. The company plans to strengthen partnerships with compliance organizations, such as FLA, Altana, and Oritain, to further enhance its commitment to ethical practices.

With a workforce of over 500 employees across the United States, Central America, the Dominican Republic, the European Union, and Asia, Next Level Apparel has bolstered its leadership and operational capacities. This expansion aims to build a flexible and resilient supply chain while providing a robust customer experience.

Next Level Apparel, a family-founded pioneer in the blank apparel industry, has established itself as the leading producer and seller of premium blanks. The company prides itself on high-quality craftsmanship and rigorous ethical sourcing, verified through industry-leading programs. By focusing on quality and customer service, Next Level Apparel continues to deliver significant returns on investment for its customers.

As Brett Bjorkman takes on the role of CEO, he is set to guide Next Level Apparel into a future marked by sustainability, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. For more information about the company and its products, visit nextlevelapparel.com.