Industrial Revolution, manufacturer and distributor of essential and reliable outdoor accessories from brands such as UCO, Morakniv, Esbit, and Light My Fire, has hired Anita Rodgers as vice president of finance.
“Five years of rapid growth and an aggressive acquisition strategy require a higher level of expertise in finance,” said Graeme Esarey, president of Industrial Revolution. “Anita brings this, and she has a great team-oriented leadership style that fits right in with our culture. We are really excited to have her join us.”
With an MBA from UC Berkeley and an MHA from University of Washington, Rodgers comes to Industrial Revolution with 25 years of finance management and leadership at companies such as Philips Electronics and Hewlett Packard. Complementary skills of Rodgers’ include strategy, contract building, internal controls, forecasting and pricing. Also an active volunteer in local non-profits and the social service community, Rodgers will fit in well with the Industrial Revolution team who deems giving back as an important role of participants in the outdoor industry.
“I’m excited about joining IR and working with a passionate and innovative team,” stated Rodgers. “The outdoor industry is quintessentially northwest and I’m delighted to be a part of it.”
Since its founding in 1971 as UCO, the Original Candle Lantern company, Industrial Revolution has expanded to become a leading manufacturer and distributor of innovative products that promote fun, safety, and comfort in the outdoors. In addition to UCO candle lanterns and Stormproof Matches, Industrial Revolution makes YayLabs! Ice Cream Balls, Pedco tripods and clamps, and Grilliput portable grills. Industrial Revolution is the US distributor of cutting-edge product lines from around the world, including Swedish Light My Fire products such as the Spork and FireSteel, German-based Esbit solid fuel stoves and cookware, myFC PowerTrekk Fuel Cell Charger and Morakniv (Mora knives).
Located in Washington’s Puget Sound region, Industrial Revolution has been honored five times by Inc. 500|5000 as one of the nation’s Fastest-Growing Companies, and twice by Outside magazine as one of the 100 Best Places to Work.