Lynnwood, WA – SOG® Specialty Knives & Tools has named Joe Mc Swiney to the position of Chief Executive Officer. The appointment was effective Oct. 19, 2016.
Mc Swiney is an outdoor industry veteran whose career includes a 21-year run with Cascade Designs Inc., a Seattle-based outdoor equipment manufacturer. For the past 10 years, he served as president and CEO of Cascade Designs. Mc Swiney began his career at Cascade Designs Europe in 1995, leading that business as General Manager. Mc Swiney received his undergraduate degree in Engineering from the Cork Institute of Technology in 1986 and returned to the National University of Ireland, Galway, to earn his MBA in 1994.
While at the helm of Cascade Designs, Mc Swiney served as chair of the Outdoor Industry of America’s Sustainability Working Group and the OIA’s Trade Advisory Council. He also served as treasurer of European Outdoor Conservation Association and worked extensively as member of Outdoor Industry of America’s Sustainability Working Group and their Trade Advisory Council.
“We are fortunate to have somebody with Joe’s extensive experience step into the CEO role. His established track record of growth and innovation will be a tremendous asset to the SOG team,” said Lanse Crane, chairman of the board at SOG.
“Joe’s energy and leadership comes to us at the perfect time,” said Spencer Frazer, SOG’s founder and chief technology officer. “As we’re embarking on a period of growth and expansion, his deep understanding of manufacturing goods across diverse market sectors will serve us well.”
Mc Swiney begins at SOG as the company prepares for an ambitious product launch in 2017 that will include an increased focus on domestic manufacturing and collaborative design work on an expanded multi-tool product line.
“SOG is an incredibly authentic brand with a fabulous heritage,” said Mc Swiney. “SOG creates iconic innovative products that attract huge customer enthusiasm. I’m honored to be part of this team as we build the future of the brand, company and all stakeholders.”
SOG has been an AKTI member since 2001 and serves on the Board of Regents.