Gander Mountain has hired Jay Tibbets, formerly at ATK Sporting Group, as vice president of hardlines merchandising. Tibbets joined the company in early March.
“We are excited to welcome Jay to the Gander Mountain team and we will benefit greatly from having his experience and expertise in the fold,” said Mike Owens, Gander Mountain’s president and chief operating officer. “Jay joins us at a time of unprecedented growth for the company, and we look forward to his contributions as we continue to grow the Gander Mountain brand and focus on our core business in hunting, fishing and shooting sports.”
Tibbets brings to Gander Mountain a wealth of experience in strategy and business development. Previously, he worked for ATK Sporting Group as the senior vice president and president. While at ATK, Tibbets also served as the vice poresident of strategy and business for ATK Armament Systems and as the director of business development for conventional munitions. Before joining the corporate workforce, Tibbets served 22 years in the U.S. Marine Corps as an ammunition officer. He holds a degree in operations management from the University of Minnesota.
With Gander Mountain, Tibbets will oversee the sales, procurement and replenishment of all firearms, ammunition, security, hunting supplies and fishing gear.
“This is an exciting time of growth for Gander Mountain, as the company solidifies its reputation as the top name in this business and reaches countless new customers through the on-going expansion,” Tibbets said. “For me, joining the Gander Mountain team is a real honor, and I look forward to working to meet the needs of hunting, fishing and shooting sports enthusiasts everywhere.”
Founded in 1960, Gander Mountain is in the midst of a sizeable expansion, with more than 40 new stores opened since 2012.
