Ruffwear, a manufacturer of performance dog gear built to inspire dog and human connections outdoors, announced that Will Blount, who has served as president for 20 years, will step down Brandan Hill, former head of product development, will be joining the leadership team as its new president.
Patrick Kruse, founder and R&D Director at Ruffwear, said, “From his very first day at Ruffwear, Will possessed wisdom and drive beyond his years. He is a true leader and mentor to me and the entire Ruffwear family. I believe I can speak for our entire company when I say that it was an honor to have been his colleague. As for Brandan, his approach of observation and presence was obvious from his start at Ruffwear. Brandan prioritizes the experience and progress of those around him above his own. I continue to appreciate how Brandan shows up, guides with an invitation, and can curate unique opportunities for, and with, the skilled and talented individuals he is now leading.”
Blount was named Ruffwear’s president almost 20 years ago, and he has led the brand to grow in the national and international marketing of outdoor dog gear. Under his leadership, Ruffwear has increased its capabilities torespond to the fast-changing market as the category developed.
“When I started, I was 28, and seven employees were working at Ruffwear. We all wore a lot of different hats back then,” says Blount. “As the company grew, what we lacked in business experience, we made up for in our passion for doing things differently. Following our path is a primary component of our culture. We pioneered a new market, and by doing so, we empowered and inspired people to spend time outside with their dogs. We bootstrapped our way to success, retaining 100 percent ownership and resisting the allure of venture capital funding. In doing so, we had the benefit of answering to Ruffwear’s true stakeholders – our employees, customers, and community. I am proud and grateful to have helped create a special company with a strong culture, amazing people, lasting partnerships, and a bright future.”
Hill’s career spans several prominent positions in product, development, merchandising and sourcing roles across a variety of top-tier brands including Chaco, Wolverine Worldwide, and Simms Fishing Products before finally landing at Ruffwear in March 2019 as Director of Product Development. As President of Ruffwear, Hill will lead the company in driving strategies for continued growth across the company’s various channels.
“First, I am lucky to have a seasoned and diverse leadership team as my partners for the way ahead,” Hill said. “Along with the rest of the pack, we will continue our strong heritage of leading the global dog gear category with market-defining products, rich creative content, and deep, meaningful connections with our partners, communities, and customers.”
To learn more about Ruffwear, visit ruffwear.com
