Did you hear?… Mark McCarroll to leave Osprey

Mark McCarroll, Osprey’s customer service manager, will be leaving the company after eight years to head up the Recreation Department at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Taking on the task of filling Mark’s shoes is Phil Schmitt, who has worked in all aspects of customer service and as back-up to Mark for the past year. He also brings extensive experience as a buyer to the position. Additionally, Jason Strickland has been promoted from customer service representative to product specialist. He will help provide the crucial communication link between retail shop staff/buyers and the Osprey Design and Sales departments, as well as managing the warranty department. SNEWS® View: Mark is returning to his roots and while we are sad for Osprey, we’re happy for him. SNEWS® — well, co-publisher Michael — first met Mark while teaching a wilderness first aid course at UCSC many years ago, and Mark’s passion for teaching and leading was evident then. He’s out of retail now, but still very firmly entrenched in the industry.