Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition Names New Executive Director

July 18, 2012 – Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition (OIWC) is pleased to announce the arrival of Deanne Buck as the organization’s new Executive Director.

With a legal background and 12 years of non-profit leadership experience in the outdoor industry, Deanne takes the reins from the much admired Sally Grimes, who is venturing on towards a new role with REI.

“Sally Grimes, OIWC’s first Executive Director, built an important organization that is in a great position for future growth,” said Deanne. “Under the umbrella of the new mission and vision adopted last year, I’m looking forward to significantly moving the needle on gender equity and leadership diversity in the workplace. Our commitment to working with all our members and partners in the outdoor, snow, and bike industries will lead to solutions that move us to the next level of business sustainability.”

Deanne’s selection comes after an extensive three-month search by a committee of the organization’s board of directors, aided by the executive search firm, The Forest Group. Deanne’s solid expertise in building and directing non-profit organizations, her commitment to gender equity and diversity work, and her successful track record in fundraising and board relations proved her to be the ideal candidate for the role.

“Deanne comes to us with solid expertise in all aspects of non-profit organizations, a love for the outdoors, and a commitment to OIWC’s mission and vision,” commented OIWC President Julie Harris. “She is a smart, strategic leader and her steady style and strong communications skills make her an amazing leader for the future of OIWC.”

Over the past ten years, the organization’s membership has increased 300%; there are now over 1,500 individuals that partake in OIWC’s events and programs. Corporate sponsorship and volunteers have also seen a dramatic rise and expansion. “Deanne’s thoughtful perspective will be invaluable to our team as we continue to grow OIWC’s size and scope.” added Julie.

Deanne Buck officially started as the new Executive Director of the Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition on Monday, July 16. She can be reached at deanne@oiwc.org and will attend Outdoor Retailer in August and InterBike in September with OIWC.

To learn more about OIWC, please visit www.oiwc.org

About OIWC

Outdoor Industries Women’s Coalition (OIWC), a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization, is a membership community of professionals in the outdoor, bike and snowsports industries. OIWC is focused on providing power, influence, professional development and opportunity in the outdoor related businesses and to generate champions to inspire other women. To learn more about the OIWC online member community or to become a new member or sponsor, please visit www.oiwc.org.