Grassroots Outdoor Alliance named Rich Hill as its new president, replacing Wes Allen who announced his decision to step down in June at the groups Connect event. Hill is the first GOA president to come from the vendor side of the business, having worked at Patagonia, Marmot and Prana, among others, after getting a start in outdoor specialty retail. Outgoing president Allen owns specialty retailer Sunlight Sports in Cody, Wyo.
Most recently, Hill managed the wholesale, direct, retail, pro integration and growth management aspects of the agency Compass and Nail. Before that, he founded the camping lifestyle brand Ticla, which targeted festival and higher-end family and urban campers but only lasted a few years.
Allen said more than 80 candidates applied for the position, but Hill stood out for his wide breadth of experience in the industry. “His diverse skill set, coupled with his executive experience, gives us 100-percent confidence he can lead Grassroots Outdoor Alliance into the future,” Allen said. “He has the viewpoint of what retailers and brands need for success.”
Now in its 22nd year, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance unites 61 independent outdoor retailers with more than 127 doors in 31 states.
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