Chris Russell leaves Plano to join Huk owner Marolina Outdoors

Chris Russell, formerly with Pure Fishing’s latest acquisition, Plano Synergy, has joined the owner of the Huk brand, Marolina Outdoors.

His appointment as Vice President of Marketing for its apparel brands, Huk and Nomad, is part of a number of new appointments within the company. These include Peter Angle moving from Chief Marketing Officer to company President and Mike Cottell, current Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Supply Chain, being appointed Chief Operations Officer.

Edwin Lewin, Chairman and CEO of Marolina Outdoors, said that Angle will be instrumental in charting the path for continued rapid growth and expansion of the group’s brands. He added Cottell is an apparel veteran who has more than 40 years of experience leading global teams across multiple brands to bring trend-right, quality products to consumers.

“With Mike’s leadership, Marolina Outdoors looks to strengthen relationships and improved execution with a renewed focus on long-term success,” said Lewin. Cottell previously served as Senior Vice President of Ralph Lauren.

Russell will be responsible for the executive management of all marketing and brand strategies. “With a career spanning more than 20 years within the outdoor industry and being a lifelong sportsman, we know Chris will leverage his vast marketing capabilities and network contacts to benefit Marolina Outdoors and its brands,” said Lewin.

Russell was Marketing Director at Plano Synergy where he was responsible for all strategic marketing and campaign execution for Plano and Frabill. He has also served in marketing roles for Shimano America and Eagle Claw Fishing.