Newsmakers - April 2025

NSSF Welcomes New Board Of Governors Members

NSSF welcomed Thomas DeBolt and Jacquelyn Clark to its elected board of governors. DeBolt is the CEO of Benelli USA and president of Stoeger Industries. Clark is the founder and co-owner of Bristlecone Shooting, Training & Retail Center in Lakewood, Colo.

“NSSF welcomes Jacquelyn and Tom to the NSSF Board of Governors,” said Joe Bartozzi, NSSF president and CEO. “We are fortunate to have their support and to be able to draw on their extensive experience in the firearm industry.”

Streamlight Inc. Promotes President

Michael F. Dineen is now serving as the president of Streamlight. He succeeded Raymond L. Sharrah, who retains the title of CEO and will provide corporate executive oversight. As president, Dineen maintains his previous responsibilities as chief revenue officer and will also lead product management, accounting and finance and IT operations.

Sharrah stated, “[Dineen] consistently demonstrated his ability to drive results, foster innovation and build strong relationships with our employees, customers and suppliers. I am confident he will show the same exemplary leadership as president of our company.”

Dineen joined Streamlight in 2009 as the VP of sales and marketing and was appointed chief revenue officer in 2022.

He earned a B.S. in management information systems from Saint Joseph’s University and an MBA with a focus in marketing from Seton Hall University.

WATCHTOWER Firearms Adds Board Member

Former Pinal County (Ariz.) Sheriff Mark Lamb has joined the WATCHTOWER Firearms board of advisors. 

Jason Colosky, WATCHTOWER CEO, stated, “He has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, serving his community with both passion and integrity and a deep love of country. He will be a valuable addition to our team.

Global Defense Appoints Int’l Sales Director

Global Defense announced the appointment of François Cortes as the new director of international sales. Cortes will lead efforts to expand the company’s global presence by developing strategic sales initiatives, identifying emerging market opportunities and fostering strong relationships with key clients and partners.

“[Cortes’] intercultural expertise will be instrumental in driving our global expansion efforts and delivering unmatched value to our clients,” said Global Defense CEO Jordan Young.

Before joining Global Defense, Cortes held senior positions at leading firearms and defense companies.

Wiley X Adds Key Hires

Wiley X expanded its sales leadership team with the addition of three seasoned executives: Seth Quackenbush as director of sales for the outdoor division, Jack Schindler as national sales manager for the outdoor division and Johnathan Weikum as director of sales for the Optical Division.

With over 20 years of experience growing renowned brands such as Ride, Fjällräven and Stanley, Quackenbush is focused on strengthening Wiley X’s partnerships to elevate the brand’s impact in the outdoor market.

Schindler also brings over 20 years of experience driving revenue and brand development. for companies such as O’Neill, C1RCA and Adio Footwear.

With extensive experience in the eyewear industry, Weikum played a key role in launching and expanding Costa’s Optical and Sunglass Specialty Channel, driving growth and leading national sales initiatives. He later spearheaded strategic partnerships for Costa and Oakley.

Davidson’s Inc. Promotes Staff

Davidson’s announced the promotions of Paul Dickson, Eric Mueller and Justin Saldivar, each to the position of senior merchandising director.

Dickson has worked in warehouse management, operations and merchandising roles within Davidson’s and ProForce Law Enforcement for a combined tenure of 20 years.

Mueller has more than 16 years of experience in sales, sales coaching and purchasing for Davidson’s.

Saldivar has 14 years of experience in merchandising from his time at Davidson’s and a large national sporting retailer before joining the company.

Bryan Tucker, Davidson’s CEO, said, “Given their extensive knowledge of firearms and firearm-related products, along with their extensive experience and being in step with our corporate culture I am very confident they will help Davidson’s continue to enhance our position as top wholesaler in the firearms industry.”

Hawke Optics Names Marketing Manager

Cameron Derr has joined Hawke Optics to serve as the company’s marketing manager.

“We were very impressed by Cameron’s experience and vision for expanding the reach of Hawke Optics,” said Kevin Sheehan, Hawke Optics VP of sales and marketing. “His work with influencer marketing, podcasts and video production will be a major asset.”

Derr spent five years as the content director for Exodus Outdoor Gear.

He earned a bachelor’s in accounting, personal finance and corporate finance from Clarion University.

Katadyn North America Expands Leadership Team

Katadyn Group announced additions to its North American leadership team with the appointment of Brook Hopper as the director of marketing for North America and Jeff Pratt as the director of sales for North America.

Chris Voxland, president of Katadyn North America, noted, “Brook’s expertise in brand strategy and purpose-driven marketing will be instrumental in expanding Katadyn Group’s presence.”

Andy Welling, VP of sales for Katadyn North America, stated, “[Pratt’s] deep understanding of the market and proven track record in sales will be instrumental in strengthening our position and accelerating growth across North America.”

Hopper has over 20 years of experience in global marketing, brand development and consumer engagement across the outdoor, cycling and footwear industries.

Pratt brings more than 15 years of experience in sales leadership for brands such as Black Diamond Equipment, Grundéns and Arcade Belts.

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