Grassroots Outdoor Alliance (Grassroots) has appointed Jenni Evertsen as director of retailer development, a new position. In media release, the trade association that advocates for and supports independent outdoor specialty retailers said Evertsen will serve as a “dedicated point of connection for Grassroots Outdoor Alliance retailer members — building relationships within the organization, identifying where Grassroots members collectively need expertise they don’t have, and creating learning experiences to help retailers achieve their goals.”
Evertsen reportedly brings 14 years of experience as an independent retail store owner and operator to her new role. During that time, she served on numerous small business boards and contributed to women-owned small business education programs in her network. Most recently, she worked as specialty sales account manager for Grand Trunk, a Grassroots vendor partner brand, where she supported Grassroots retailers directly.
“I’m excited to step into this new role and support the outstanding retailers in the Grassroots network,” Evertsen said. “My hope is to build a role centered on real connection, bringing retailers the education and resources they need, while always keeping sight of the people behind the stores.”
Evertsen’s scope is expected to encompass member onboarding, professional growth, learning opportunities, communication between the organization and its members, and most importantly, communication between the members themselves. She will also lead education programming at the twice-annual Grassroots Connect Show.
“The creation of this new role reflects ongoing investment to better serve our members,” said Gabe Maier, president, Grassroots Outdoor Alliance. “Our retailers are owner-operators who, in many instances, manage every aspect of their businesses. We created this position to ensure that all Grassroots retailer members have a dedicated advocate as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of independent specialty retail. And we’re excited to welcome the right person to lead those efforts in Jenni.”
Images courtesy Grassroots Outdoor Alliance
