Newsmakers:
January 2022

Davidson’s Names President

Wayne Tumlin was recently promoted to president of Davidson’s. Former President Bryan Tucker remains actively involved as chairman and CEO. As president, Tumlin is responsible for guiding and managing the implementation of Davidson’s strategic initiatives, as well as directing and overseeing execution of the company’s day-to-day operations.

Tucker stated, “[Tumlin’s] keen analytical ability, excellent communication skills, business experience and personality make Wayne a great choice to lead the Davidson’s team.”

Tumlin joined Davidson’s as its SVP and general counsel in 2020, however, he’d served as the company’s corporate legal counsel and advisor since 2012. He also served as outside general counsel to a number of national and international closely held businesses.

Zanders Sporting Goods Grows Team

Four new team members recently joined Zanders’ growing family of employees. Janelle Chapman was hired as assistant sales manager; and Chris McVety, Krista Miller and Adam Becker joined the sales staff.

Chapman previously worked in sales and has held several sales manager positions at companies such as Pepsi Mid America.

McVety began his career in the firearms industry working at his father’s custom shop where he eventually built custom night sights for high-profile industry companies.

Miller joins Zanders following a sales management position at Kinsey’s.

Becker also worked at Kinsey’s, and has held various sales and account management roles in his career.

Primary Arms Expands Staff

Primary Arms Optics announced the hire of Stephen Morgan as director of product marketing, and Primary Arms welcomed Brett Steward as director of business development.

“It became clear we needed a product leader to guide our long-term marketing strategy,” said Donald Riley, VP and GM of Primary Arms Optics. “Stephen’s experience and unique expertise made him a clear choice for the business.”

Following his retirement from the Army in 2009, Morgan was a firearms purchaser and national sales manager before working with military/L.E. agencies to secure procurement contracts and assist in the development of new products to fit their requirements.

Steward will seek improvements and growth opportunities for Primary Arms’ core business units, which now include optics, retail, wholesale and government.

Ozge Cumberland, Primary Arms’ SVP of sales, marketing and business development shared, “We believe [Steward] will be a great addition to our culture and our beloved Primary Arms family.”

Originally from the U.K., Steward served 13 years as a police officer before relocating to the U.S. in 2013. He held senior executive roles at several industry brands prior to joining Primary Arms.

Tedder Industries Appoints CEO

Tedder Industries, manufacturer of firearms holsters and accessories for military, tactical and civilian use, announced Shawn Hostetter joined the Tedder family of brands as CEO.

Thomas Tedder, founder of Tedder Industries said, “Tedder Industries was founded upon the entrepreneurial spirit, and the board is excited to have Shawn’s experience leading the company forward with that same spirit and drive.”

Hostetter joins the company following his tenure as president of Katadyn North America.

He is a graduate of Brigham Young University.

Buck Knives Welcomes Manager

As Buck Knives’ new marketing manager, Ryan McGinnis will provide strategic oversight and aid in driving a consistent and cohesive brand experience. He is responsible for consumer and trade marketing programs, creative and content development, new product launches and supporting Buck Knives’ omni-channel sales strategy.

Chris Bourassa, Buck Knives’ director of marketing and product development, stated, “[McGinnis] … has an exceptional marketing mindset and a creative drive that will no doubt highlight Buck’s authentic story.”

Previously, McGinnis served in marketing roles at Benchmade Knife Company. Most recently, he was the marketing director of the Redmond Chamber of Commerce and CVB.

HeadHunters NW Adds Recruiter

HeadHunters NW expanded its team with the addition of Katie Rohs as its sourcing, recruiting assistant.

Shaylene Keiner, president of HeadHunters NW, said, “[Rohs] brings extensive networking, human resources and industry experience that strengthens our niche firm’s position at the forefront of the firearms industry.”

Rohs has nearly a decade of experience in training and development, customer service and community engagement.

Dead Air Silencers Selects VP

Dead Air Silencers announced the latest addition to its senior level management team: VP Rod Cleveland. Combining his sales experience and leadership skills, Cleveland aims to provide support to the company’s distributors, dealers’ network and beyond.

Ernie Beckwith, Dead Air Silencers president said, “We are extremely excited to have Rod spearhead our sales team. We look forward to his insight and leadership as we continue to grow our sales network.”

Cleveland has over nine years’ experience in the firearms industry. He recently served as head of sales for Kimber Firearms.

O.F. Mossberg & Sons Inc. Mourns Chairman

O.F. Mossberg & Sons Inc. is mourning the loss of its chairman, Alan Mossberg, who passed away Nov. 6. He was the grandson of the company’s founder, Oscar Mossberg.

Doug Bell, Mossberg president and COO, shared, “A great leader, visionary and champion of bringing high-quality, innovative firearms to the masses, Alan was a tireless advocate for gun rights and gun safety while always working to ensure the American traditions of hunting and shooting sports live on for many years to come. More importantly, Alan was a devoted husband, father and friend. He will be greatly missed.”

From a very young age he worked for the Mossberg organization, and became a pillar of the global firearms industry. He was also heavily involved with organizations such as Ducks Unlimited, NRA, NSSF, NWTF, SAMMI, North American Hunting Club and the U.S. Olympic Shooting Team.

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