Casey Sheahan joins Simms as CEO
The outdoor industry vet leaves his role as President of KEEN Footwear.
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Outdoor industry veteran Casey Sheahan is joining Simms in the newly created role of CEO. The Montana-based company is the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical apparel in fishing. It’s a perfect fit as Sheahan is a lifelong angler.
“Simms is a very special company in the sport fishing industry, and I feel that my entire career has prepared me to lead this brand to new heights,” Sheahan said in a press release. “We have a world-class team, a talented board, and a strong capital partner. I’ll work with K.C. and the Simms team on product-centric strategies to help Simms realize its full potential,” he said.
Sheahan has had an eclectic, impressive career in the outdoor industry with roles in marketing with Nike, Merrell and Kelty. He was the CEO of Patagonia for nine years, during which the company experienced the most successful phase in its history, tripling the business. Most recently, Sheahan was President of KEEN Footwear, and he has also served on the Board of Directors for Johnson Outdoors since 2014.
K.C. Walsh, majority owner and longtime President of Simms, will become the company’s Executive Chairman. Walsh says Simms’ values and vision for the future of sport fishing align closely with those of Simms.
“His involvement will allow me to focus on product innovation, future business development, conservation initiatives, and more fishing. Our entire Simms team is thrilled to have Casey join us,” Walsh said.
