Consumer >> CEO Interviews >> March 1, 1999
GARY OLEN, CEO & Chairman of The Sportsman's Guide, Inc. Born on March
29, 1942; Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Children: Wendy, Jeff. Career History:
Various positions, JC Penney Catalog Division, 1960-67; Merchandise
manager, C&H Distributors, 1967-70; Merchandise director, Fidelity
Products, 1970-77; EVP, President, CEO and Chairman of the Board, The
Sportsman's Guide, 1977-present. In his spare time he likes to hunt,
fish, read, and spend time with his family. His major career
accomplishment has been 'founding The Sportsman's Guide, which began as
a 'kitchen table' operation.' He says, 'I don't intend to retire. I
enjoy this business too much.' (GAH605)(13078) Profile
TWST: Give us a brief overview of The Sportsman's Guide? Mr. Olen: The company started in 1979 selling items through magazine
space ads geared expressly towards deer hunters. The first