5.11 Tactical Appoints Tim Ridings As Outdoor Channel Manager

MODESTO, CALIF. (July 2, 2012)—5.11 Tactical, the global innovator of tactical gear, today announced the appointment of Tim Ridings to outdoor channel manager. Ridings, a 20 industry veteran with a wealth of sales and product development experience, is charged with supporting the company’s growing expansion into the outdoor marketplace. As 5.11 Tactical increases its outdoor product visibility—with gear currently available at Cabela’s, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Bass Pro Shops, Gander Mountain and more—Ridings will build upon the brand’s existing relationships, furthering develop sales strategies and opportunities to connect with outdoor enthusiasts.

“I have respected the quality and innovation of the 5.11 Tactical brand for many years and I’m fortunate to be joining the company as it launches aggressive, strategic growth into the outdoor industry,” commented Ridings. “As an avid outdoorsman and seasoned sales professional, I understand this industry inside and out—from both a corporate and consumer perspective—and I look forward to pairing my skillset with the talented 5.11 Tactical team to fuel future success.”

Ridings brings a unique sales and sourcing background coupled with a complete understanding of supply chain mechanics in the outdoor and sporting goods industry to his role as outdoor channel manager. Prior to joining 5.11 Tactical, Ridings was operations director of sourcing and logistics for SmartWool LLC, creator of technical apparel for an active-outdoor life, where he was responsible for leading the strategic planning and sourcing process both domestically and internationally. Before his role at SmartWool, Ridings was a sourcing and production manager at OOBE Inc., playing an integral role on the Wolverine Brand Apparel sales and product development teams. He has also held positions at Summit Resources Imports, 105 Meridian, Kingwhale Industries Corporation, Rocky Mountain Sports and Gamma Spots. Ridings earned a bachelor’s of science from Elon College and is an active archer, fly fisherman and big game hunter.

“With the growth of 5.11 Tactical and added focus on the outdoor channel, it was critical that we recruit strategic resources to support our team,” said Matt Sinclair, executive vice president of sales at 5.11 Tactical. “Tim was selected for his diverse background in sales and product development as well as his understanding of the outdoor channel and end-users demands. We’re confident he’ll prove to be an asset to our management team and influential leader for our outdoor sales group.”

Ridings is based in 5.11 Tactical’s Boulder, Colo. office and works closely with Outtech Inc., the company’s sales partner, to promote 5.11 products in the consumer outdoor marketplace.

For more information about 5.11 Tactical, please visit www.511tactical.com. Connect with 5.11 Tactical on Facebook at www.facebook.com/511Tactical and on Twitter (@511Tactical). For press inquiries, contact Robin Dwyer at 619-234-0345.


About 5.11 Tactical Series®

Headquartered in Modesto, Calif., 5.11 Tactical® is an innovator of tactical gear that enhances the performance and safety of law enforcement, military, fire and EMS professionals worldwide. Built on a foundation of durability and quality that began with the original 5.11 pant 30 years ago, 5.11 Tactical’s 300 team members continue to work closely with public safety and military professionals to identify unmet needs and problems that can be addressed through innovation. Learn more about 5.11 Tactical clothing, uniforms, station-wear, outerwear, footwear and accessories at www.511tactical.com.

###