MeatEater, Inc. has appointed Under Armour and Brunt Workwear veteran Kevin Eskridge as chief commercial officer (CCO). The company said in a media release that Eskridge “brings extensive expertise in outdoor and athletic apparel product innovation, business strategy and operational leadership to MeatEater’s dynamic team.”
As CCO, Eskridge will oversee the company’s consumer products and commerce business, including managing MeatEater’s product portfolio, operations, sales and distribution channels (e-commerce, wholesale and owned retail), and marketing and customer service functions. He will spearhead these efforts across MeatEater’s product brands, including MeatEater branded products, First Lite technical hunting apparel, FHF Gear, Phelps Game Calls, and Dave Smith Decoys.
“Kevin’s proven ability to drive growth through product innovation and distribution coupled with compelling marketing is exactly what we need as we continue to scale,” said company CEO Jason Bergsman. “His deep experience and entrepreneurial spirit make him the ideal leader to elevate our business and deepen our connection with the outdoor community. We’re thrilled to have him join us on this journey.”
Eskridge joins MeatEater after an 11-year tenure at Under Armour, where he held multiple leadership roles, culminating as chief product officer (CPO). At Under Armour, Eskridge reportedly worked closely with Co-founders Kevin Plank and Kip Fulks to establish the brand’s presence in the hunting, military, tactical, and fishing categories. Eskridge’s career at Under Armour also included a pivotal stint as managing director of China, where he led UA’s retail expansion across Asia, opening 100 stores.
After returning to the U.S., Eskridge served as president of performance and merchandising for Under Armour and later as CPO, leading product innovation and go-to-market strategies for Under Armour. Most recently, Eskridge was president of Brunt Workwear, a direct-to-consumer workwear and footwear startup.
“Joining MeatEater feels like a natural evolution for me,” said Eskridge. “The company’s mission to inspire people to connect with nature and its commitment to conservation are both compelling and impactful. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and collaborate with this talented team to deliver innovative products that enhance some of the outdoor activities I’m most passionate about.”
Eskridge’s appointment at MeatEater follows last month’s appointment of Scott Trepanier as EVP of Marketing at MeatEater, further bolstering the company’s seasoned outdoor products management ranks. Trepanier, who reports to Eskridge, joined MeatEater after a 14-year career at Columbia Sportswear, where he worked in key marketing leadership roles, culminating in his position as VP of U.S. marketing.
Images courtesy MeatEater, Inc.
