Newsmakers
June 2023
Buck Knives Adds National Manager
Buck Knives recently welcomed Rick Alsen as its national accounts manager where he will develop, implement and manage the sales strategy with several of Buck’s key national accounts.
Mark Reasoner, Buck Knives’ VP of sales, said, “National accounts are a critical element to our long-term growth plan, and [Alsen’s] expertise in this channel puts Buck Knives in a great position to achieve success.”
Alsen has more than 25 years of experience with outdoor recreation companies, including X-Vision, Beavertail Products Gardner Sales Associates.
Orchid LLC Names Sales/Marketing VP
Eric Willie has joined Orchid LLC as the firm’s VP of sales and marketing.
“Eric brings extensive industry experience from across the firearm supply chain, having spent time with leading manufacturers and distributors, as well as our industry’s trade associations, with the goal of adding value to the retail FFL community,” shared Leland Nichols, Orchid chief strategy and business development officer.
Prior to joining Orchid, Willie held various leadership roles at Gearfire and AcuSport.
Revo Brands Hires Chief Revenue Officer
Revo Brands, the parent company of Real Avid and Outdoor Edge Cutlery, has hired Kenan Ikels as chief revenue officer. Ikels will lead sales for Revo Brands with responsibility for the company’s top-line revenue growth.
Roy Wetterstrom, CEO of Revo Brands, stated, “[Ikels] brings a wealth of experience in our industry and has a track record of driving revenue growth and strong relationships within our channels. He is a dynamic, strategic leader and fits in well with our team.”
Ikels has been in the outdoor sporting goods and recreation industry for the past 18 years, most recently as the EVP of sales for Aqua Leisure Recreation.
Lipsey’s Promotes Executives
Lipsey’s announced Flint Virgets was promoted to executive industry director from his position as president, and SVP Mark Emonet was appointed president and will remain CFO.
Laurie Lipsey, chairwoman and CEO, shared, “We wanted to honor these two men at the pinnacle of their careers for their past and future contributions which have proven invaluable.”
With the organization for 35 years, Virgets’ newly created position focuses on the strategic enhancement of both dealer and manufacturer partnerships on every level of the industry.
Emonet has served in several operational roles during his 23 years with the company. As president and CFO, he will continue to mentor staff, nurture company culture and oversee day-to-day operations.
TenPoint Crossbow Technologies Advances Marketing Director
TenPoint Crossbow Technologies recently promoted Brian Flaherty to director of marketing. He will manage all functions of marketing, including creative direction, social media, website design and function, e-commerce and advertising.
“I’m excited to see Brian advance to the next chapter in his career,” said Phil Bednar, president and CEO of TenPoint Crossbows. “Brian has been a crucial part of the company’s success since he started 15 years ago.”
Prior to working at TenPoint, Brian earned his MBA in management from the University of Akron and a BA in education.
Staccato Enhances Training Division
Staccato has welcomed retired U.K. Special Mission Unit (SMU) operator Chris Craighead to the company’s training division.
“We are honored to welcome another true hero to our team,” Staccato CEO Nathan Horvath said. “Christian exemplifies our core values and his actions in Nairobi represent the epitome of acting with honor and doing what is right, especially when it is difficult.”
Craighead is highly respected for his actions in Nairobi, Kenya, where he defeated terrorists in a hotel siege and saved over 700 lives.
Bringing his extensive experience and expertise to Staccato, Craighead will conduct elite programs including active shooter response training for SWAT teams across the U.S.
Ed Brown Products Retains Sales/Marketing Director
Dave Biggers is now serving as Ed Brown Products’ sales and marketing director. He will be responsible for maintaining Ed Brown’s existing sales channels, as well as developing sales and marketing strategies focused on customer service and growth.
Travis Brown, CEO of Ed Brown Products, shared, “[Biggers] brings a proven track record of sales and marketing experience, a passion for what we do and the outside perspective and contacts necessary to continue to grow and improve our company.”
Biggers has more than 20 years’ industry experience from working extensively in the parts accessory business and 1911 sales.
Hornady Appoints Marketing Operations Coordinator
Matt Ritchie was appointed marketing operations coordinator for Hornady. He will play a key role in coordinating donation requests, shooting sports programs and sponsorships.
“We are thrilled to have Matt join the Hornady marketing team,” said Neil Davies, Hornady marketing director. “Matt is an avid outdoorsman; his product knowledge and work ethic will make an immediate impact.”
Ritchie joined Hornady in 2015 as a sales technician.
Caracal USA Taps Sales VP
Caracal USA announced Bill Silver as the new VP of sales for the American market where he is tasked with driving the company’s commercial programs and expanding the brand nationwide.
“Bill has built a solid reputation within the shooting sports market as a tireless sales executive with deep knowledge of our distribution chain and strong working relationship with distributors, box stores and dealers,” said Jeffrey Spalding, president and CEO of Caracal USA.
Silver has served as the VP of sales for various firearms brands including SIG SAUER.
