A visionary leader with expertise in branding, community-building, and creativity steps into quilting’s top role.
Zach Decker, former KT Tape CMO, appointed CEO of Handi Quilter, pledging to expand accessibility, inspire quilting innovations, and build stronger community ties for enthusiasts worldwide.
Handi Quilter, a global leader in quilting machines, systems, and accessories, is turning the page to a new era with the appointment of Zach Decker as Chief Executive Officer. Decker steps into the position after an extensive national search, succeeding Mark Hyland, who is retiring after an impressive 20-year tenure that solidified the brand’s reputation in the quilting community.
Decker, a seasoned marketing executive with a track record of driving brand growth and community engagement, brings fresh energy to Handi Quilter’s mission of supporting quilters around the globe. His experience aligns seamlessly with the company’s dedication to innovation, education, and connection.
“Zach is not only an accomplished brand builder but also a leader who truly understands passionate consumer communities,” said John S. Castle, President and CEO of Branford Castle Partners and Chairman of the Board of Handi Quilter. Castle praised Decker’s work as Chief Marketing Officer at KT Tape, where he successfully expanded the brand’s reach beyond elite athletes to everyday consumers pursuing personal goals.
Decker’s career has been marked by transformative leadership. At KT Tape, he helped drive product innovation and broadened brand relevance, contributing to the company’s successful transaction earlier this year. His prior marketing roles at Kraft Foods, The Hershey Company, and Cricut sharpened his belief that creativity, whether in crafting or quilting, should be accessible to everyone.
Adding to his dynamic professional background, Decker is a graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former Naval officer, bringing a disciplined, mission-centric approach to leadership. He also holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
“Handi Quilter has a proud history of serving quilters around the globe with products designed by quilters, for quilters,” said Decker, expressing his excitement about building on the company’s strong legacy. “I’m passionate about championing meaningful innovation and enhancing communication to ensure more people feel invited, confident, and inspired to quilt.”
Decker steps into the role as Hyland, the company’s longtime CEO, retires after two decades of transformative leadership. Under Hyland’s guidance, Handi Quilter became a globally recognized brand synonymous with quality and creativity. Handi Quilter’s board and team expressed gratitude for Hyland’s contributions and leadership during his tenure.
Founded in 1999 by Laurel Barrus, Handi Quilter is headquartered in North Salt Lake, Utah, and has grown into a trusted name in quilting technology. The company serves quilters across the world through a robust network of retailers, educators, and programs, under its guiding philosophy: “Designed by quilters, for quilters®.”
With Zach Decker at the helm, Handi Quilter is poised to continue innovating and growing its global community, proving yet again that quilting is more than just a craft—it’s a passion that bridges generations, skill levels, and borders.
