Freedom Group Names Scott Blackwell President
OutdoorHub 08.15.12
Freedom Group, Inc. (FGI), the firearms industry leader with brands including Remington, Bushmaster, DPMS and Marlin, has named Scott Blackwell President. Blackwell, an established industry veteran, served as Chief Sales and Marketing Officer since 2010. As President, Blackwell will oversee all revenue, branding, marketing and communications for FGI, including: Sales and Marketing, Accessories and Lifestyle, Licensing, E-Commerce, Defense and Law Enforcement, Brand Management, Industry Relations, Public Relations and Social Media.
“Scott’s leadership, institutional knowledge and strategic thinking make him a natural fit as President,” said George Kollitides, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of FGI. “Scott has been with us from the beginning — in many ways the cornerstone of our Company. Since 2006 I’ve relied on him as an advisor, architect and friend. I’m now honored to call him President, a well-deserved promotion for a man who helped make FGI a leader.”
Blackwell has been a fixture in the firearms industry for the last 15 years, rising quickly at FGI, where he started as President of Bushmaster Firearms in 2006, becoming Remington President of Sales and Marketing in 2007, rising to FGI Chief Sales Officer later that year, and finally becoming the FGI Chief Sales and Marketing Officer just two years ago.
“Scott’s work has shaped the way we do business and allowed us to grow in depth and breadth,” said Walter McLallen, Vice Chairman of FGI. “From military and law enforcement to hunters and shooters, there are none more attuned to customer needs and expectations than Scott. As President of FGI, Scott will continue our drive into the global marketplace, ensuring our customers receive only the highest quality services and experiences.”
“Since 2006, I’ve been fortunate to have a leading role in the development and expansion of FGI,” said Blackwell. “To become President of FGI, representing the tens of millions of hunters, shooters, gun owners and first responders who use our products every day, is a life’s dream.
“I’m looking forward to working closely with my partner, Kevin Miniard, FGI’s Chief Operating Officer who oversees Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain and Product Development, so we can accelerate FGI’s growth. Our strong partnership will ensure we meet our aggressive growth plans and the needs of our customers and consumers.
“With a company history almost as old as the Republic itself, I understand the importance of not merely passing along our legacy, but improving it. We are more than a gun company; we are a defining part of American culture. This is our path forward, and as President of FGI I look forward to guiding us there.”
