Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (GOA) President Rich Hill is leaving the outdoor specialty retailer group.
Hill gave the news to GOA staff ahead of the group’s annual board of directors retreat earlier this month stating he would leave his role later in April after heading up its annual strategic planning session and assisting in the search for his replacement.
“Without question, the last five years have been the most challenging and rewarding in my career,” said Hill. “We’ve accomplished a lot together, though what I am most proud of is that we have successfully moved independent specialty retailers from the foggy edge of what used to be the core of the industry, to a place where they are an integral part of many vendor’s strategies.”
“We’re incredibly thankful for Rich’s dedication, vision and energy. We were fortunate to bring him into the Grassroots family, we learned a ton together, and we’re sorry to be saying goodbye. His commitment and leadership have been integral to our success,” said Emily White, vice-chair, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance.
“There’s no secret sauce here. The success of Grassroots is and always will be a team effort,” said Hill. “There’s a combination here of legacy knowledge of the specialty retail industry and creative energy that is truly special.”
Photo courtesy GOA/Rich Hill
