Outdoor Research announced a new leadership structure with industry veteran Roger Barton taking the helm of the company.
Since 2018, Barton has led all aspects of finance and operations at Outdoor Research, building on a range of successes and investments that moved the company to record results. Barton previously held senior operating and financial roles at Marmot over a 24-year period. Current President Michelle Wardian has been promoted to president and chief strategy officer of Youngone America and will serve on the Outdoor Research Board of Directors.
“It is my great pleasure to announce the promotion of Roger Barton to President of Outdoor Research,” Wardian said. “Over the last two-and-a-half years Roger has been an incredible partner in the transformation of our brand and he is deeply committed to our mission of creating protective solutions that provide durable value and improve the lives of our customers. Roger leads with integrity and compassion. His deep experience in specialty retail and his commitment to best in class operations will propel Outdoor Research to the next stage of greatness.”
Kihak Sung, chairman of Youngone Corporation, said: “Michelle’s passion for building diverse, high-performing teams empowers our organization to build strategic partnerships across a wide group of stakeholders. I’m delighted to have Outdoor Research move forward under Roger’s leadership, and grateful for both Michelle and Roger’s continued dedication and focus on Youngone family companies.”
Barton added: “I am incredibly excited to continue to be a part of a brand that has the history and authenticity that Outdoor Research does. Michelle has built a team that has been resilient and that has performed in the face of a challenging year for the OR brand and for our industry partners. Owners Chairman Sung, Youngone and Dan Nordstrom have continued to make significant investments in the business for the long term. We continue to have a deep commitment to serve and provide world class protection for our Outdoor and Military consumers.”
Photos courtesy OR/Roger Barton
