Scott Whipps, director of sports retail for Clif Bar & Company, has succeeded REI's Angela Owen as new chair of The Conservation Alliance board of directors. Owens, who had represented REI on the board since 2007, handed off the torch at the Outdoor Retailer show in Salt Lake City last month.
In the past year, Whipps has served as chair of the Alliance’s Board Recruitment Committee, charged with bringing new members into the organization. The Alliance board identified him as Owen’s successor last summer.
“We will miss Angela’s solid presence on the board, but look forward to benefiting from Scott’s proven leadership and vision,” said Conservation Alliance Executive Director John Sterling. “We work hard on succession planning, and expect a smooth transition.”
Whipps takes the reins at the beginning of The Conservation Alliance’s 25th anniversary year. The organization will focus extra energy moving forward on adding new members and growing its grant fund to support conservation organizations.
“It is an honor to chair The Conservation Alliance Board of Directors,” said Whipps. “I look forward to furthering the Alliance’s innovative programs and collaborating with partners across the outdoor industry to protect the places we play. Joining The Conservation Alliance is one of the best ways for an outdoor company to participate in conservation efforts.”
Clif Bar & Company is one of The Conservation Alliance’s Pinnacle Members, companies that contribute at least $100,000 annually to the organization.
Since its inception in 1989, the Alliance has contributed nearly $13 million to grassroots conservation groups. Membership in the Alliance is open to companies representing all aspects of the outdoor industry, including manufacturers, retailers, publishers, mills and sales representatives.
