Sheldon Baker10.22.10
Larry Kolb is U.S. operations president for TSI Health Sciences, which he co-founded in 1996. He is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day corporate North American operations, as well as guiding the company's sales and marketing functions. Larry is a veteran of the greater healthcare industry, having successfully directed sales and marketing strategies in the personal care, OTC, dietary supplement, and pharmaceutical segments in a variety of executive management roles. Previously, Larry was vice president of Charles Bowman & Company of Holland, Michigan, where he directed specific raw material sales and marketing strategies into the personal care, OTC and dietary supplement industries. He also held the position of sales and marketing manager for Nurture, Inc. in Missoula, Montana. Larry holds a bachelor of sciences degree in finance from Arizona State University in Tempe, Arizona.
Health E-Insights: What are the significant trends in the sports supplement marketplace?
Mr. Kolb: There appears to vertical integration and brand consolidation in the space. I believe the economy has taken its toll on higher priced brands where more movement has shifted to lower priced brands or private label. I also see a downturn in innovation and new product launches. TSI dedicates tremendous resources to its proprietary sports ingredients, PEAK ATP and Promilin. And we work closely with our select group of sports customers where we do all we can to support their needs for continued growth and industry leadership with these products and the market segments these products serve.
Health E-Insights: Do you envision sports supplements coming under greater scrutiny?
Mr. Kolb: Yes. I see the days of a lax FDA as firmly in the review mirror. Look at how FDA is testing product sports products for banned substances and going after these companies. I believe industry scrutiny will only increase for years to come.
Health E-Insights: What things do you do outside of work to help you be better at your job?
Mr. Kolb: I spend time with family and friends. I try to get away from work and the stress associated with it. I like to spend time doing activities that are far away from the office that get my mind on other areas. When I come back to the job I’m more productive with some rest and a fresh mind.
Health E-Insights: What would I find in your refrigerator right now?
Mr. Kolb: Lots of milk. I have two growing boys.
Health E-Insights: What was your favorite toy as a child?
Mr. Kolb: I liked blocks. I don’t know why I liked them—I guess I was pretty bored. I used to spend hours building the most awesome building, and then I’d tear it down in 30 seconds.
Health E-Insights: Who’s your favorite actor?
Mr. Kolb: Will Ferrell
For more information and interview consideration, contact Sheldon Baker at sbaker@bakerdillon.com or visit his website at www.bakerdillon.com.
For more information and interview consideration, contact Sheldon Baker at sbaker@bakerdillon.com or visit his website at www.bakerdillon.com.
