Cincinnati-based Benchmark Outdoor Outfitter announced that industry veteran Sally Grimes has been named the new vice-president of retail operations and marketing. Grimes brings 18 years of outdoor industry and small business management experience focused on marketing, operations, fundraising, and program development, says the company.
“With the recent explosion of interest in outdoor activities in the tri-state region as well as the booming adventure travel business, it’s an exciting time to be a part of such a well-respected local outfitter,” Grimes said.
As the former executive director of Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition and Winter Wildlands Alliance, Grimes built two organizations from the ground up, increasing customer bases by nearly seven times. Before joining the Benchmark team, Grimes was responsible for the development and implementation of volunteer, event and education programs at the recently established REI in Cincinnati. Grimes will lead Benchmark’s retail operations and marketing sector, focusing on examining Benchmark’s customers’ needs and expectations and developing programs, events and a retail environment designed to deliver a high-quality and unique customer experience.
