Buck Knives has hired the former category/channel manager from competitor Gerber Legendary Blades as its new director of product develpment.
Gil Butler will play a key role in extending the Buck brand into new product segments. Gerber has had success putting its brand on everything from headlamps to multi-tools and hydration packs.
“We are very excited to have Gil on board,” said CJ Buck, Buck Knives President. “His knowledge of the outdoors as both an enthusiast and an industry expert give him the personal and professional insight to take this leadership role. We believe Gil will help us continue to build products and a brand that speaks to our core customers, while bringing new energy, ideas and vision to an ever-changing business and industry.”
Butler joins Buck after more than three years at Gerber where he was consistently promoted to match his increasing leadership, brand vision and execution skills. Butlers extensive experience prior to Gerber was within the environmental and natural resources sector, which helped to cement his love of the outdoors. Butler will help lead and define the product development direction for Buck Knives, facilitating continued strong growth and innovation.
“I carried a Buck knife as a kid while hunting with my father,” said Butler. “I always treasured it not just for the memories but for the quality. It never let me down, and I hope to be able to now return the favor. Its an honor to be able to come to work for Buck, and I look forward to working with the entire team to develop the best products and strategies the market has seen.”
Dave Visnack, VP Marketing at Buck says, “Things are happening here at Buck. Gils addition here is indicative of our long-term vision. His skills and experience in the knife and outdoor worlds will serve as an integral part of our brand growth strategy, and were thrilled to have him on board and to keep moving forward.”
Butlers responsibilities will include determining consumer needs, product design and production feasibility. He will be working in conjunction with marketing, sales, and the executive team to ensure Buck Knives product development efforts are integrated with the companys short and long term growth goals.
“We are very excited to have Gil on board,” said CJ Buck, Buck Knives President. “His knowledge of the outdoors as both an enthusiast and an industry expert give him the personal and professional insight to take this leadership role. We believe Gil will help us continue to build products and a brand that speaks to our core customers, while bringing new energy, ideas and vision to an ever-changing business and industry.”
Butler joins Buck after more than three years at Gerber where he was consistently promoted to match his increasing leadership, brand vision and execution skills. Butlers extensive experience prior to Gerber was within the environmental and natural resources sector, which helped to cement his love of the outdoors. Butler will help lead and define the product development direction for Buck Knives, facilitating continued strong growth and innovation.
“I carried a Buck knife as a kid while hunting with my father,” said Butler. “I always treasured it not just for the memories but for the quality. It never let me down, and I hope to be able to now return the favor. Its an honor to be able to come to work for Buck, and I look forward to working with the entire team to develop the best products and strategies the market has seen.”
Dave Visnack, VP Marketing at Buck says, “Things are happening here at Buck. Gils addition here is indicative of our long-term vision. His skills and experience in the knife and outdoor worlds will serve as an integral part of our brand growth strategy, and were thrilled to have him on board and to keep moving forward.”
Butlers responsibilities will include determining consumer needs, product design and production feasibility. He will be working in conjunction with marketing, sales, and the executive team to ensure Buck Knives product development efforts are integrated with the companys short and long term growth goals.
