Newsmakers - January 2024

Buck Knives Welcomes Sales VP

Marty Carlson is now serving as the VP of sales for Buck Knives. He will oversee the company’s internal and external sales organization and independent rep groups, as well as look to accelerate growth and further strengthen the brand.

Lane Tobiassen, president of Buck Knives, shared, “I have no doubt that Marty will propel our sales organization and company to new heights.”

Carlson has held senior-level sales positions during his 20-year career. Most recently, he was the senior director of sales — camping and watercraft for Johnson Outdoors.

Zanders Sporting Goods Hires Sales Manager

Jeff Krieg has joined Zanders Sporting Goods as sales manager.

“[Krieg] has the passion and drive to be successful, and with his prior knowledge we are confident he will do a great job,” said Zanders President and COO Danny Siegler.

For the past 20 years, Krieg has held several management and supervisory positions in the retail industry.

He earned a degree in business and risk management from Illinois Wesleyan University.

Berger Names Sales & Compliance Manager

Berger named Bob Goalder its export sales and compliance manager where he will head international sales efforts in addition to meeting all federal, state and local government requirements.

Adam Braverman, Capstone Precision Group VP of sales and marketing, said, “Bob holds the qualities we sought out in filling this position — an outgoing personality and eagerness to help grow Berger’s international presence.”

Goalder has been warehouse manager at Capstone Precision Group, manufacturer and distributor of Berger bullets and ammunition, for the past five years and brings a background of international logistics, compliance and customer service support to his new role.

5.11 Tactical Announces Exec. Changes

5.11 Tactical announced the planned transition in the senior leadership of the company. Co-founder and former CEO Francisco J. Morales will serve as the executive chair of the board of directors, and board member Troy R. Brown assumes the role of CEO. 

In these new roles, Brown will assume day-to-day leadership of the company while Morales will continue to work with the leadership team.

Brown joined the board in 2019 and has provided instrumental advice and guidance assisting the brand in its rapid nationwide expansion.

QuietKat Taps Sales Manager

QuietKat announced the appointment of Ross Botha as its new sales manager for military, law enforcement and official government agencies (OGA).

Jake Roach, president and co-founder of QuietKat, stated, “[Botha’s] unique blend of experience, knowledge and customer-focused approach align perfectly with our mission to provide innovative solutions to those who serve.”

Botha’s career in the global defense community spans several decades. He is a former military officer and co-founder of a Southern African defense-training provider.

Legacy Sports Appoints COO

Legacy Sports International announced the appointment of Paul Lemke as its new COO. Lemke’s extensive background in the shooting sports industry, along with his record of driving growth and operational transformation, positions him as an ideal fit to spearhead Legacy’s continued expansion and innovation efforts.

Rick Hanke, CEO of Legacy Sports International, shared, “[Lemke’s] strategic vision and leadership capabilities are well aligned with our core values and goals.”

Hold My Guns Elects Board President

Hold My Guns (HMG), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting gun owners through firearm storage, appointed David L. Hess as the new board president.

Hess is a co-owner of HMG’s Arizona Storage Partner, MAD Partners Inc., and works as a director for KPMG LLP. He has been involved with HMG for several months as an FFL Storage Partner and serving as a board member with a focus on FFL engagement.

Custom & Collectible Firearms Announces Sales Director

Custom & Collectible Firearms announced Cameron Salvaggio was recently named the director of sales and marketing. He aims to expand the reach of the company by working with retailers to get firearms in the hands of enthusiasts and collectors alike.

A company press release stated: “Cameron is a great asset and will play a vital role in helping us develop relationships with key retailers across the country. His drive and ability to work with firearm dealers benefit the entire team and make him an ideal leader as we continue to grow our brand.”

Salvaggio previously worked for the independent sales agency Owens Outdoor Sales.

Pnuma Outdoors And Heated Core Retains Sales Director

Pnuma Outdoors and Heated Core welcomed Mike Meiran to its leadership team as the director of sales, where he will be leveraging his extensive experience in sales, marketing and merchandise planning.

“Mike brings a unique perspective that will provide a new era of growth and innovation for both Pnuma and Heated Core. He’s a great addition to our team, and we’re excited for    what’s to come,” said Phil Dalrymple, GM of Pnuma Outdoors and Heated Core.

Most recently, Meiran served in roles at Kinsey’s Archery Products. He also worked for Gillz LLC and Marolina Outdoor, home to brands such as Huk and Nomad.

Hydra Weaponry Names Sales & Marketing VP

Hydra Weaponry announced the addition of Mark Eliason as its new VP of sales and marketing. He will focus on increasing brand awareness among distributors and dealers, as well as creating sales and marketing programs for the company’s growing line of firearms.

Mack Gwinn III, president of Hydra Weaponry, stated, “[Eliason] has the experience and relationships already built within our industry to help give our brand access to critical sales channels.”

Eliason has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry. He began his career with Bushmaster and served as the VP of sales and marketing for Windham Weaponry.

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