Johnson Outdoors appoints new fishing division head

Johnson Outdoors, owner of the Minn Kota, Humminbird and Cannon brands, has appointed former Newell Brands executive, Bill Kirchner, to run its fishing business.

Kirchner joins the company as Group Vice President, Fishing and will be responsible for strategic direction and oversight and driving growth.

He brings experience and success in growing, building and reinventing consumer business, said this week’s announcement from Johnson Outdoors.

At Newell, Kirchner was Senior VP and General Manager of the Outdoor Equipment segment from 2020. Before that he was at Amer Sports and Wilson Sporting Goods.

He becomes a member of the company’s executive committee and will report to Johnson Outdoors CEO, Helen Johnson-Leipold.

“Bill’s 25-plus years of experience and capabilities will be critical to our fishing business, ensuring we continue to leverage our strengths in consumer-driven innovation and maximise opportunities in the outdoor recreation industry,” said Johnson-Leipold.

Johnson Outdoors recently announced third quarter results showed an 8% year-on-year decline in revenue. Sales for the fishing division grew just 1%, driven mainly by price increases.