First Lite Welcomes New VP, Head of Product

MeatEater, Inc. hired Curtis Graves as VP and head of product for First Lite, its owned and operated technical hunting apparel brand headquartered in Hailey, ID.

In his new role, Graves will lead product design and development for the First Lite brand, focusing on various technical apparel categories that serve Western big game, whitetail, waterfowl hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts. With his expertise in product line management and a practical, hands-on approach to development, Graves will oversee First Lite’s product range and have an instrumental role in shaping its direction moving forward.

Graves reports to MeatEater’s Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Gritzbaugh. He will also work closely with Founder Steven Rinella and CEO Jason Bergsman on the company’s leadership team.

“Curtis’ passion for hunting, fishing and conservation aligns so well with the ethos and mindset of each of our brands and company overall,” said Rinella. “Curtis is the right person to lead our product ambitions for First Lite for years to come. His arrival marks a significant milestone in our journey; we look forward to the fresh and forward-looking approach he will bring to First Lite’s best-in-class products and brand.”

Graves reportedly has an extensive background in the outdoor and sporting goods industry in product design, development, and product management roles, having worked for Trek Bicycles, Salomon, Black Diamond Equipment, Simms, and, most recently, Grundéns, where he oversaw product and marketing. During his six years at Grundéns, Graves helped to expand the brand into sport fishing apparel, waders, waterproof bibs, and footwear.

“As someone who has always appreciated the innovative approach that First Lite has taken with building technical gear for the hunting and outdoor market, I’m thrilled to be joining the First Lite leadership team,” said Graves. “I’m excited to see what future product innovations we can collectively drive, building off of the strong foundation First Lite has built over the last two decades.”

Image courtesy First Lite