Business people :Johnson Outdoors Gear Boosts Executive Sales Team

Johnson Outdoors Gear (JOG) and Watercraft divisions today announced key sales executive appointments to expand its presence in the specialty retailer market and build on its rich heritage of innovation, quality and unparalleled customer service in the outdoor industry. Twelve-year veteran of Johnson Outdoors, Paul Johnson, was named senior director of sales, JOG and Watercraft; Chris Lussier was named senior regional/international sales manager for JOG/Jetboil; Gregg Gunderman was appointed Eastern regional sales manager for Watercraft and Jeff Cunningham was named Western regional sales manager for Watercraft and JOG/Jetboil key accounts.

Paul Johnson will continue to spearhead sales operations for the Johnson Outdoors Gear and Watercraft divisions. His new position enables him to focus on driving sales across both the Watercraft and Outdoor Gear divisions and expanding distribution of Johnson Outdoors’ brands nationwide.

In his new role, Lussier will focus exclusively on JOG’s camping and hiking brands and building growth in the specialty retailer market. Prior to his appointment, Lussier was sales and marketing vice president at Jetboil, which was acquired by Johnson Outdoors in November 2012. In his former role at Jetboil, Lussier was responsible for the growth of the brand within the outdoor retail category and expanding its North American distribution channels. Prior to Jetboil, Lussier was vice president of sales and marketing for Garmont North America.

Supporting Paul will be Jeff and Gregg, each with new responsibilities that will enable them to focus on areas of key strengths. Gregg’s 20 years’ experience of successful sales management and watercraft expertise will help drive new opportunities while Jeff’s strong background in hard goods sales with The North Face, Mamut and Zoot will translate well with JOG’s Eureka! and Jetboil brands.

“These key appointments mark a new era for Johnson Outdoors as we elevate our commitment to customer service on the sales side of the house and develop targeted partnerships with specialty retailers across the U.S.,” said Bill Kelly, group vice president of Johnson Outdoors Gear and Watercraft “Chis is a great addition to our sales team and we look forward to tapping his vast talents in the outdoor arena. He has a great understanding of what resonates with retailers and consumers alike.”

About Johnson Outdoors Gear, Inc.
JOHNSON OUTDOORS is a leading global outdoor recreation company that turns ideas into adventure with innovative, top-quality products. The company designs, manufactures and markets a portfolio of winning, consumer-preferred brands across four categories: Watercraft, Marine Electronics, Diving and Outdoor Gear. Johnson Outdoors' familiar brands include, among others: Old Town® canoes and kayaks; Ocean Kayak™ and Necky® kayaks; Carlisle® paddles; Extrasport® personal flotation devices; Minn Kota® motors; Cannon® downriggers; Humminbird® marine electronics; LakeMaster® electronic charts; SCUBAPRO® and SUBGEAR® dive equipment; Silva® compasses; Tech4O® digital instruments; and Eureka!® tents.

Written By: Katy Gaenicke