Mathias Ihlenfeld
Global CEO at woom Bikes
About
Mathias Ihlenfeld is a visionary leader who transformed woom bikes from a garage startup into North America’s fastest-growing children’s bicycle brand. After launching woom USA in 2014, he pioneered a disruptive direct-to-consumer (DTC) model that propelled the company to over €100 million in annual revenue by 2022. Under his leadership, woom earned Inc. 5000 recognition for three consecutive years (2019–2021) and became the 7th fastest-growing company in Austin. A German native with an MBA from the University of Alabama, Ihlenfeld leveraged his background in IBM/SAP financial consulting to build a sustainable, international business. He spearheaded innovations like the upCYCLE program (recycling bikes for underserved communities) and expanded woom’s global footprint into 30 countries. Recognized with the 2022 Vistage Impact Award, he emphasizes employee empowerment, customer-centric design, and community engagement. How Mathias Can Help Mentees: 1. Scaling DTC brands from startup to Inc. 5000-level growth. 2. Optimizing supply chain logistics for global e-commerce. 3. Building customer loyalty through grassroots marketing and community programs. 4. Cultivating mission-driven company culture in high-growth environments. 5. Navigating mergers, leadership transitions, and international expansion.
Experience
Global CEO, woom bikes
Led merger of woom USA and Europe into a unified brand.
Founder & CEO, woom bikes USA
Scaled revenue by 742% in 3 years, earning Inc. 5000 honors.
Advisory Board Member, Texas 4000 for Cancer
Nonprofit leadership in cancer research.
SKU Mentor
Guides startups on scaling and problem-solving.
IBM/SAP Consultant
Financial management for Fortune 500 firms.