Yakima has promoted Liz Szulczewski to regional sales director for the Western territory and hired Ross Gilsrud as regional sales director for the Central region. Both appointments are effective immediately.


Sculczewski has been with Yakima for over 14 years, working her way through the warranty department, dealer services, sales, and strategic management and has most recently been recognized with her work as a senior sales manager focused on building the REI business.


Gilsrud, who will be based in Elk Grove, Minn., comes to Yakima with over 15 years of experience, having most recently worked at Stearns, Inc. of Sauk Rapids, Minn., as a national account manager leading customer development efforts through sales rep agencies and with national accounts. Prior to joining Stearns Inc., Ross held various sales and sales management positions at Crystal Farms in Lake Mills, Wisc., and at the Keebler Company in Elmhurst, Ill.

“Both Liz and Ross are veterans at working with customers to build great businesses, making them ideal for these positions,” said Ron Ten Berge, vice president of sales and business development for Yakima. “They both have proven track records and leadership qualities that support our corporate initiatives to have the best customer service in the industry and to grow the Yakima business in current as well as into new channels.”


Gilsrud will manage the Central region sales representative groups, growing and developing profitable sales and promotional strategies as well as lead the sales efforts for all customers in the Central region. In the Western region, Szulczewski will provide day-to-day strategic leadership for sales rep groups and be responsible for maintaining and growing Yakima’s business with all key western accounts.