Director of Strategic Growth - Outdoor Industry
Lead market expansion and long-term business strategy for premium outdoor and recreation lifestyle brands.
Overview
This career involves a high-level blend of market analysis, financial modeling, and brand stewardship within the outdoor recreation sector. Daily activities center around evaluating emerging trends in outdoor activities, such as boating and camping, to determine how a company can capture new customer segments. The rhythm of the work is driven by seasonal product cycles and long-term capital investment planning, requiring a balance between creative brand visioning and rigorous data-driven decision making.
Professionals in this field spend significant time collaborating with cross-functional leaders in product development, marketing, and supply chain to ensure growth initiatives are feasible and sustainable. Success in this role often depends on a deep understanding of the enthusiast consumer base and the ability to navigate complex global distribution channels. Those who excel tend to be systems thinkers who can translate passion for the outdoors into scalable corporate frameworks and measurable financial returns.
Responsibilities
- Develop multi-year growth roadmaps that align brand identity with untapped market opportunities.
- Evaluate potential mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships to enhance the corporate portfolio.
- Analyze consumer behavior data and market trends to identify shifts in outdoor recreation habits.
- Collaborate with product design teams to ensure new offerings meet technical and aesthetic standards.
- Oversee the budget and financial forecasting for all new business development initiatives.
- Present strategic findings and progress reports to the board of directors and executive stakeholders.
- Manage relationships with external distributors and key retail accounts to expand physical market reach.
Qualifications
- Bachelor degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field is typically required.
- Minimum of ten years of experience in business development or strategic planning within consumer goods.
- Proven track record of successfully scaling revenue or market share in a competitive industry.
- Advanced proficiency in financial modeling and quantitative market analysis tools.
- Experience managing high-level corporate partnerships and contract negotiations.
Nice to have
- Master of Business Administration (MBA) from a reputable institution is highly preferred.
- Extensive professional network within the outdoor, marine, or recreation equipment industries.
- Experience with international market entry strategies and global supply chain logistics.
Work environment
- Work is typically performed in a professional office setting with frequent travel to trade shows and field sites.
- Collaboration occurs across diverse time zones when managing international growth projects.
- The culture often balances corporate professionalism with an appreciation for outdoor field testing and gear utility.
- Standard business hours are common, though seasonal peaks and product launches may require extended commitments.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation packages frequently include performance-based bonuses tied to revenue targets.
- Executive-level benefits often include equity options or long-term incentive plans.
- Career progression typically leads to C-suite roles such as Chief Strategy Officer or Chief Operating Officer.
- Professional development often includes industry-specific summits and executive leadership coaching.
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