Outdoor Industry Association Appoints Candie Gerakos as Director of Business Development

BOULDER, CO (December 13, 2006) – OIA President Frank Hugelmeyer recently announced the appointment of Candie Gerakos in the newly created Director of Business Development position. At her new post with OIA Gerakos will build stronger alliance programs, partnerships, and membership sales that provide greater benefits to improve the growth and success of OIA member companies.

Gerakos brings to OIA a strong sales and marketing background from her tenure in the airline industry, most recently with Frontier Airlines. Candie held a leadership role in developing airline sponsorships, partnerships, and corporate sales as the Director of Sales and Sponsorships for Frontier. Prior to her time at Frontier she spent more than ten years at Continental Airlines where she was responsible for leading small business and tactical program, incentive programs, group programs and sales, and specialty sales.

“The creation of this position signals OIA’s commitment to increasing our member cost saving benefits, awards programs, and partner alliances,” remarked Hugelmeyer. “Candie’s expertise with major corporate partnerships and small business benefits alike will allow OIA to diversify our member benefit programs to provide the greatest savings to strengthen outdoor industry companies and their products.”

Gerakos is thrilled to make the move to the outdoor industry. “I’m especially excited to be involved with an organization that mirrors my personal love of the outdoors. Whether skiing, biking or hiking, I am a passionate participant in outdoor activities and look forward to supporting an industry that promotes outdoor activity.”

Gerakos will start December 18, 2006 and will be available at the OR Winter Market Tradeshow to meet with OIA members.