From OIA:
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) has hired The Forest Group to lead the national search for a new executive director. Plans are under way to gather input from board of directors, OIA staff and industry stakeholders on the profile of the organization’s next leader.
“The Forest Group has a strong track record finding successful talent for outdoor industry organizations, including retailers, manufacturers and not-for-profits making them an ideal choice to lead the search for OIA’s executive director,” said Jen Mull, OIA board chair and Backwoods CEO. “We’re confident that they can find a strong leader to help shape the future of OIA and the important work that we do serving more than 4,000 members who operate successful outdoor businesses.”
“The Forest Group is committed to facilitating a search process that will result in a vibrant future for our industry,” said Adam Forest, Forest Group managing partner. “We will focus our efforts on identifying candidates who bring the necessary leadership skills, management experience, and deep connection to the business landscape that best serves the mission and vision of Outdoor Industry Association.”
Finding a new executive director to lead Outdoor Industry Association is a top priority for the OIA board of directors. In September of 2014, Frank Hugelmeyer resigned as president and chief executive officer after 15 years of service. Steve Barker, founder and former CEO of Eagle Creek was appointed interim executive director to lead the organization during the transition. The board expects the complete process to hire and onboard the new executive director to take four to six months.
Outdoor Industry Association
Based in Boulder, CO, with offices in Washington, D.C., Outdoor Industry Association is the leading trade association for the outdoor industry and the title sponsor of Outdoor Retailer. OIA supports the growth and success of more than 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers of outdoor recreation apparel, footwear, equipment and services. For more information, visit outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.
