Omnia Fishing is excited to announce the addition of Mark Prondzinski as the new Head of Product.  The company is making significant investments in its technology and platform to help customers get the right products for success on the water. Mark will lead that charge.   Mark has over 20 years experience as a technology entrepreneur and web and mobile product leader. Prior to joining the Omnia Fishing team, Mark led the Product Team at Minnesota-based start-up InboxDollars, helping to position the company for an acquisition in 2019.  Throughout his career, Mark has built and managed a wide diversity of products and product teams - ranging in industries from healthcare to rewards programs with successes at the start-up and enterprise level. Post-acquisition, Mark's recent experience at Prodege was focused on driving growth in user engagement and retention for a portfolio of more than 120 million active users spread across 7 direct-to-consumer rewards program brands.  He is data driven like the rest of the Omnia team. Outside of work, Mark is an avid baseball fan, enjoys cooking and supporting the local Twin Cities restaurant and brewery community, and is always looking forward to the next opportunity to hit the road and travel with his family of four. Mark is still only an aspiring angler and is looking forward to getting further immersed in the Omnia Fishing team.          Employers and recruiters within outdoor recreation industry sectors post job opportunities on Outdoor Occupations to find qualified business professionals passionate about the outdoors.  Outdoor Occupations' job board service is free of charge for job seekers to search and apply for the latest new opportunities in the outdoors! -->Browse NEW Outdoor Industry Jobs Here<-- Outdoor Industry Jobs | Fishing Industry Jobs | Boating Industry Jobs | Hunting Industry Jobs Firearms Industry Jobs | Archery Industry Jobs | Bicycle Industry Jobs | Camping & Hiking Industry Jobs Wildlife Conservation Jobs | Paddlesports Industry Jobs

CHANDA WILL WORK WITH RBFF LEADERSHIP TO INCREASE FISHING & BOATING PARTICIPATION   ALEXANDRIA, VA (September 30, 2021)  –The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation (RBFF) today announced Dave Chanda as the organization’s new President and Chief Executive Officer. In his new role, Chanda will manage all aspects of RBFF operations and assume responsibility for meeting the strategic goals set by RBFF leadership. Chanda, who originally joined the RBFF team in 2017 as Vice President of State & Federal Engagement, brings to the role more than 30 years of leadership expertise. “What an incredible honor to be selected to lead RBFF,” said Chanda. “I have had a 23-year long association with this organization and have always been a steadfast supporter of their goals and mission. I look forward to continuing to work with this talented team as we continue to grow fishing and boating opportunities throughout the country.” “Dave has made tremendous progress advancing state recruitment, retention and reactivation (R3) efforts during his time at RBFF,” said RBFF Board Chairman and ZEBCO Past President Jeff Pontius. “We believe he has the knowledge and expertise to continue driving forward RBFF’s successful initiatives while also identifying innovative new solutions that will both support stakeholders and keep fishing and boating relevant with today’s consumers.” Prior to joining RBFF, Chanda had a 37-year career with the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, including 11 years as the agency’s Director. Chanda is the former president of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) and was a key player on RBFF’s Board of Directors for nine years. He holds a Masters’ Degree in Public Administration from Rutgers University and is currently pursuing a Masters’ Degree in Marketing from Johns Hopkins University. Chanda succeeds Frank Peterson, who joined RBFF in 2007. During Peterson’s tenure, RBFF contributed to marked increases in fishing license sales, attracted millions of new anglers to fishing, and helped grow the percentage of adults who participate in recreational boating to record numbers. “I’ve known Dave for many years, and I can’t think of a better person to carry forward the important work we do to increase participation in fishing and boating and the critical conservation efforts that rely on it,” said Peterson. “Adding to Dave’s extensive experience working with state and federal agencies, he is surrounded by a talented group of marketing professionals who are dedicated to RBFF’s mission.” “I also want to thank Frank and acknowledge his leadership in working on behalf of the boating and fishing communities these last 15 years. He has been a good friend and mentor,” added Chanda.  Chanda officially assumes his new role on January 1, 2022.        Employers and recruiters within outdoor recreation industry sectors post job opportunities on Outdoor Occupations to find qualified business professionals passionate about the outdoors.  Outdoor Occupations' job board service is free of charge for job seekers to search and apply for the latest new opportunities in the outdoors! -->Browse NEW Outdoor Industry Jobs Here<-- Outdoor Industry Jobs | Fishing Industry Jobs | Boating Industry Jobs | Hunting Industry Jobs Firearms Industry Jobs | Archery Industry Jobs | Bicycle Industry Jobs | Camping & Hiking Industry Jobs Wildlife Conservation Jobs | Paddlesports Industry Jobs

METTAWA, Ill. –  Brunswick Corporation (NYSE: BC) announced that Kris Neff has been named President, Boston Whaler and Nick Stickler has been appointed Vice President of Category Management and Strategic Planning at Mercury Marine. Both announcements are effective immediately. Neff joined Brunswick in 2005 and over the past 16 years, has excelled in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility across many divisions. Most recently, he was the Vice President of Category Management and Strategic Planning at Mercury Marine. Under his direction, Mercury launched some of its most innovative products including the February 2021 launch of the 600hp V12 Verado as well as the Company’s 1st Mate Safety System, which won multiple Innovation Awards at the 2020 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). Stickler also joined the company in 2005 and has held multiple leadership positions including President of Fort Wayne Operations where he ran both the Harris and Cypress Cay businesses and most recently as President of Boston Whaler. Stickler has guided Whaler through a time of incredible growth both in product portfolio and capacity, including with the recent re-opening of the Flagler facility in Florida which is adding further capacity to meet record demand from Whaler’s customers. “I am truly thankful for the opportunity to lead a world-class organization such as Boston Whaler,” said Neff. “We have an incredible team of colleagues and partners with an extremely passionate customer base. Under Nick’s leadership, the Whaler team has done a tremendous job establishing a solid platform to build upon and grow the legacy of one of the marine industry’s most iconic brands.” “Mercury Marine is one of the most established and well-known brands in the marine industry and I am excited to join its leadership team,” said Stickler. “I have enjoyed a wonderful relationship with Mercury while running both Fort Wayne and Boston Whaler and am excited about the opportunity to make an impactful addition to Mercury’s award-winning portfolio of products. Kris and his team have helped Mercury grow market share over the past few years with a host of award-winning products and I look forward to developing the next evolution of propulsion systems.” Neff holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, a master’s degree in Engineering, and an MBA from the University of Michigan. Neff started his career with Ford Motor Company as a Manufacturing Engineer before joining Brunswick in 2005. Stickler holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a master’s degree in Automotive Systems Engineering from the University of Michigan, and an MBA from the University of Chicago. Stickler also started his career with Ford Motor Company as a Powertrain Design Engineer before joining Brunswick in 2005. About Brunswick Headquartered in Mettawa, Ill., Brunswick Corporation’s leading consumer brands include Mercury Marine outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages; Mercury global parts and accessories including propellers and SmartCraft electronics; Advanced Systems Group, which includes industry-leading brands like MotorGuide, Attwood, Mastervolt, Blue Sea Systems, CZone, and ASG Connect system integrators; Land ’N’ Sea, BLA, Payne’s Marine, Kellogg Marine, and Lankhorst Taselaar marine parts distribution; Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils; Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Heyday, Lowe, Lund, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray, Thunder Jet and Uttern boats; Boating Services Network, Freedom Boat Club and Boat Class.  For more information, visit  brunswick.com .       Employers and recruiters within outdoor recreation industry sectors post job opportunities on Outdoor Occupations to find qualified business professionals passionate about the outdoors.  Outdoor Occupations' job board service is free of charge for job seekers to search and apply for the latest new opportunities in the outdoors! -->Browse NEW Outdoor Industry Jobs Here<-- Outdoor Industry Jobs | Fishing Industry Jobs | Boating Industry Jobs | Hunting Industry Jobs Firearms Industry Jobs | Archery Industry Jobs | Bicycle Industry Jobs | Camping & Hiking Industry Jobs Wildlife Conservation Jobs | Paddlesports Industry Jobs

Charleston, SC –  Edwin Lewis, Chairman & CEO of Marolina Outdoor Inc. has announced effective immediately, Pete Angle will move from his current position of Chief Marketing Officer to serve as the company’s President. In addition, Mike Cottell, current Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Supply Chain for Marolina, will serve as Chief Operations Officer. Lewis is pleased to add Chris Russell as Vice President of Marketing for both Huk and Nomad. Angle will be instrumental in charting the path for continued rapid growth and expansion of the Marolina Outdoor brands. Angle has most recently served as Chief Marketing Officer for Marolina Outdoor Inc., where he was responsible for all areas of strategic marketing and the direct-to-consumer business for all brands. In his professional life, he has also served in marketing roles for Plano Synergy, O. F. Mossberg & Sons, Inc., and Under Armour. Cottell is an apparel industry vet who has more than 40-years’ experience leading global teams across multiple brands to bring trend-right, quality products to consumers. With his leadership, Marolina looks to strengthen relationships, improve execution with a renewed focus on long-term success. Mike served previously as Senior Vice President of Ralph Lauren. Russell will be responsible for the executive management of all marketing and brand strategies. “With a career spanning 20+ years within the outdoor industry and being a lifelong sportsman, we know Chris will leverage his vast marketing capabilities and network of contacts to benefit Marolina Outdoor and our brands,” adds Lewis. Russell recently served as Marketing Director at Plano Synergy, where he was responsible for all strategic marketing and campaign execution for Plano and Frabill. In his professional life, Russell has also served in marketing roles for Shimano America and Eagle Claw Fishing. “Mike, Pete and Chris bring years of experience and proven skill sets that allow them to truly understand our consumers and the challenges of our marketplace. Under their leadership, the future of Marolina Outdoor is poised for continued success,” says Lewis. About Marolina Outdoor Inc . was founded to bring deep-seated product expertise across all outdoor categories. Our innovative designs and technologically focused products create the foundation of our authentic outdoor apparel. Huk clothing represents a fresh take and a unique understanding of angling needs, offering functional styles that appeal to anglers of all ages. NOMAD is motivated to provide quality apparel so that hunters can maximize their experiences to hunt and provide sustenance regardless of the size of the game or where their pursuits lead them.    

BOZEMAN, Mont. –  Simms Fishing Products, the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical apparel in fishing, announced the hiring of Jordan Wand as its Chief Product Officer. The decision to elevate the role that leads product merchandising, design, development, and innovation was greatly influenced by the increased interest in fishing since the Spring of 2020, paired with SIMMS’ continued focus on building the best products for all types of fishing. As CPO, Wand brings extensive experience in merchandising leadership, assortment planning, customer insights, market trend assessments, financial analysis, and omni-channel go-to-market strategy. “After rocking and rolling without a dedicated product leader since COVID hit us in March of 2020, our product team has been working overtime to support our aggressive long range plans and also, to fulfill increased marketplace demands,” said Casey Sheahan, SIMMS CEO. “We are so excited to have Jordan at the product helm. Not only does he have the chops to get the job done, he’s an all-around good guy and a great fit for SIMMS.” Over the past three decades, Wand has worked for a variety of brands and organizations, within and beyond the outdoor industry. Prior to joining Simms, he served as the Principal of Vert Consulting. Prior to that, Wand held the role of Vice President, Outdoor at Under Armour and spent six years as the Vice President of Product & Marketing at Outdoor Research. Other notable roles include VP/General Manager of Apparel at Merrell, Global Director of the Advanced Innovation Team at Nike, and various leadership positions at Polo Ralph Lauren, encompassing 12 years. “The opportunity to lead the Product Team for a brand like SIMMS is truly a career highlight. SIMMS represents the pinnacle in innovation, product leadership, and authenticity, and has for over 40 years,” said Wand. “I am so excited to play a role in helping this amazing brand define the future of angling and performance fishing products.” Wand waded into his role at SIMMS’ headquarters in Bozeman in mid-July and has already begun to explore all that beautiful Montana summers have to offer. About Simms Fishing Products Established in 1980, Simms is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear and technical fishing apparel and accessories. Simms’ 80,000 square foot facility in Bozeman is the country’s only manufacturing facility for fishing waders. The full line of Simms gear is available at specialty and large format retailers across North America as well as  simmsfishing.com .  

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — After 10 years serving as CEO of B.A.S.S., Bruce Akin will be retiring September 30, company officials announced today. B.A.S.S. Chairman Chase Anderson will be assuming responsibility for the organization’s day-to-day operations and serving as CEO. Over the past year, Akin oversaw the beginning of a new multiyear television deal with FOX Sports, which ensured live broadcast coverage for every Elite Series event and the Bassmaster Classic for the first time in history. The eight hours of live coverage during the 2021 Academy Sports + Outdoors Bassmaster Classic presented by Huk reeled in nearly 2 million viewers to the FOX broadcast network and FS1. Under Akin’s leadership, B.A.S.S. also set records for attendance at both the Bassmaster Classic and Elite Series events, introduced junior, high school and kayak tournament trails, revived the Redfish Cup Championship and recorded growth in almost every facet of its business, including membership, viewership, readership and digital engagement, with record-breaking engagement on Bassmaster.com and Bassmaster social media channels in 2021. “I am incredibly proud of everything B.A.S.S. has accomplished in the past decade and am especially excited about the growth we’ve seen as a brand and across our sport,” Akin said. “During a challenging time, we’ve seen how important fishing is and how people gravitate to the outdoors, and I look forward to seeing how the industry continues to serve anglers. B.A.S.S. has a storied history and a bright future, but I am excited to get started on this next chapter in my life. “Through working with our associates, anglers and sponsors I’ve made some great friends in this industry. It really will be the people I’ll miss most.” Akin originally planned to retire last year but stayed on to guide the organization through the pandemic, ensuring that the Bassmaster Elite Series completed its full schedule. This solid leadership during an uncertain time was part of why Akin was named one of the  Birmingham Business Journal ’s Executives of Influence for 2020. Akin is a respected and effective leader in the sportfishing industry as part of the American Sportfishing Association Board of Directors and as an active member of the Center for Sportfishing Policy and Keep America Fishing. He has also long been active in civic affairs, serving the community as part of the board of advisors for The University of Alabama College of Communication and Information Sciences, board of directors of the St. Vincent’s Hospital Foundation and Leadership Birmingham. “Bruce has been instrumental in growing B.A.S.S. over the past decade and has demonstrated a tireless dedication to serving our associates, anglers, members, fans and business partners,” said Anderson. “Bruce’s leadership has been instrumental in positioning B.A.S.S. as the growth-focused industry leader we are today. Thanks to Bruce’s solid guidance, we are better positioned for the future and focused on being the leader in the sportfishing industry for many years to come.”   Anderson Media Corp. acquired controlling interest in B.A.S.S. in 2017 and Anderson has been working as Chairman of B.A.S.S. LLC while also serving on the board of directors and in strategic roles for several other Anderson family-owned companies.  “I have been working directly with our associates, anglers and business partners for the past four years, and am excited for the opportunity to expand my role and work more closely with everyone in a more hands-on capacity. Much of my time has been spent on the operations of B.A.S.S., and I look forward to dedicating even more of my time to working with our great team as we continue to grow. My family and I have always had a long-term view of the business and organization, and I’m really excited about our future. I have so enjoyed working closely with Bruce and he’s been a great mentor and friend. I wish him the absolute best in retirement.” No other changes to the organization’s daily operations are currently planned.