Introduction

It seems like everyone’s glued to their screens these days, doesn’t it? Amidst a constant barrage of emails, group texts, and Zoom meetings, it’s no wonder many of us are dreaming of something different.

Ever dreamt about leaving your current office desk behind? Not necessarily for a literal tent out in the wilderness—but maybe for a role that is more connected to the outdoors?

The outdoor industry offers a wide range of career opportunities well beyond the traditional park ranger and trail guide roles that many people first think of when they hear the phrase “outdoor industry.” From creating more eco-friendly products to guiding strategic initiatives, this sector provides numerous opportunities for executives to work on projects that matter and make a difference.

Whether you’re drawn to the mountains, the ocean, our national parks—or just want to make sure your kids get to see the same landscapes you did—a career outdoors could be the breath of fresh air you’re looking for. Sometimes, quite literally.

Outdoor Industry Jobs with High Earning Potential

Transitioning from a more traditional corporate role to the outdoor industry can be a refreshing change, especially for those who find fulfillment in being close to nature and participating in conservation efforts.

And while it’s true that the pay scales in roles that are physically outdoors may not always compete with the salaries offered in corporate positions, executive careers within this sector can be more financially rewarding than many people outside the industry realize.

For instance, for executives with marketing and communications skills, opportunities abound in leading roles within outdoor apparel and equipment companies. These businesses are continually seeking innovative ways to connect with consumers and expand their market share.

An executive role here would leverage your skills in brand development, strategic marketing, and consumer engagement, driving growth and enhancing brand loyalty in competitive markets.

For professionals with a tech background, moving into senior management roles within outdoor industry companies can be a strategic career move. There’s a growing demand for executives who can manage large-scale data, oversee technological advancements, and support critical research and development projects.

In 2024, companies specializing in outdoor and sports technology products, like GPS devices, fitness trackers, and environmentally sustainable materials, need leaders who can guide product development and innovation. This could involve overseeing the integration of new technologies into product lines, managing R&D teams, or spearheading sustainability initiatives to meet the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

For those in senior management, this sector also offers the chance to influence corporate strategy and operations at a high level. Whether it’s scaling a start-up to new heights or steering a well-established brand towards greener practices, the work combines business savvy with a commitment to the great outdoors.

Roles in state or federal land management agencies—such as the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and US Forest Service—offer positions that can leverage a background in marketing and communications. These roles contribute to public education, community engagement, and the promotion of park conservation initiatives. Although these positions might not have you outside in nature daily, they often provide the chance to work in stunning locations, where even your days off are an adventure.

Park maintenance roles, whether at city, state, or national levels, can offer practical, hands-on work in some of the most beautiful settings. But with experience and the right qualifications, advancing to supervisory positions in this field can result in competitive salaries, especially in certain parts of the country.

Of course, in any industry, it’s the people at the top who often steer the ship. From the boardrooms of major adventure gear manufacturers to the strategic planning sessions of eco-tourism enterprises, leaders in the outdoor industry hold key positions that drive innovation and sustainability.

Below are just a few examples of the types of C-suite and executive roles you might come across in this field:

Examples

• Chief Executive Officer (CEO): Oversees all company operations, sets strategic vision, and ensures alignment with financial goals. Examples include leading outdoor gear manufacturers, adventure travel companies, and recreational vehicle producers.
• Chief Operating Officer (COO): Manages daily operations and logistics to optimize efficiency. Can be found across the industry, from outdoor lifestyle apparel companies to sporting goods brands, and many other types of businesses.
• Chief Financial Officer (CFO): Responsible for financial planning, risk management, and reporting. Roles are crucial in large-scale outdoor equipment manufacturers, outdoor retail chains, and luxury adventure travel firms.
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO): Oversees the integration and implementation of new technologies to enhance product offerings and customer experiences. Suitable for individuals from tech-heavy industries.
• Vice President of Sales: Drives sales strategies and manages the sales team to maximize revenue. Important in sectors like fishing equipment companies, hunting gear brands, and outdoor sports equipment.
• Vice President of Marketing: Develops and implements marketing strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement. Common in outdoor apparel companies, eco-tourism ventures, outdoor fitness providers, and others.
• Product Development Director: Leads the creation and innovation of new products. Relevant in businesses like camping gear manufacturers, outdoor footwear companies, and technical outdoor clothing brands.
• Supply Chain Director: Manages supply chain operations to ensure product availability and cost efficiency. Key role in outdoor equipment manufacturers, recreational vehicle companies, and high-end outdoor apparel brands.
• Director of Human Resources: Oversees recruitment, training, and employee welfare. Plays a critical role in all major outdoor companies to maintain a skilled workforce and positive work environment.
• Director of Sustainability: Guides company practices in sustainability and environmental impact. Particularly vital in ecotourism agencies, outdoor conservation product companies, and businesses focusing on green technologies in outdoor gear.
• Director of E-commerce: Manages online sales strategies and platforms, optimizing the digital customer journey. Ideal for professionals with a background in digital marketing or e-commerce.
• Director of Customer Experience: Focuses on enhancing the overall customer interaction with the company’s products and services. A good fit for executives with customer service or client relations backgrounds.
• Director of Risk Management: Develops strategies to mitigate risks related to business operations, including financial, legal, and environmental risks. Suitable for those with experience in finance, insurance, or legal industries.
• Global Supply Chain Director: Manages international supply chains, optimizing logistics from manufacturing to distribution. Appropriate for those with global logistics or supply chain management experience.
• Director of Corporate Development: Identifies and evaluates merger and acquisition opportunities, guiding corporate strategic growth. Suitable for individuals from finance, consulting, or corporate strategy roles.
• Chief Sustainability Officer: Leads initiatives to promote sustainability and responsible business practices across all company operations. A good transition role for those from environmental sciences or corporate social responsibility sectors.
• Director of Regulatory Affairs: Ensures that company products and operations comply with governmental and industry regulations. This role is well-suited for individuals from regulatory, legal, or compliance backgrounds in various industries.
• Business Development Manager: Identifies and develops new business opportunities, including partnerships and market expansion. Found across the industry from adventure sports companies to outdoor clothing and gear retailers.

As you can see, a move to the outdoor industry isn’t always about taking your career outside. It’s about stepping into roles where you can drive real change. Engaging in work that aligns with your values—particularly if those include environmental stewardship—can provide immense personal satisfaction alongside professional growth.

For those with a knack for leadership, the outdoor sector not only demands but also deeply values innovative thinking and a proactive approach to both business and environmental challenges. The range of potential positions—from managing a team in a national park to strategizing at the helm of a major outdoor apparel company—highlights the dynamic nature of this industry. Here, you could be leading initiatives that actively contribute to conservation efforts, or you could be developing products that help others enjoy the outdoors more sustainably.

Given the urgency of today’s environmental issues, companies are increasingly looking for leaders who can not only adapt to but also anticipate changes in consumer behavior, regulatory landscapes, and global sustainability practices. This means there’s a growing need for professionals who can blend traditional business acumen with a deep understanding of ecological and social governance.

Whether your background is in marketing, technology, finance, or operations, transitioning into the outdoor industry could mean leveraging your skills to influence not just company performance but also its impact on the planet. For many, this sector offers a unique opportunity to leave a positive mark on the world, ensuring that future generations can enjoy the same natural spaces that we do today.

Tips

• Senior professionals coming from other industries often have substantial experience and skills that can translate directly into permanent, strategic roles. Executives can benefit from networking within the outdoor industry, attending relevant conferences, and working with executive recruiters within the outdoor sector like Cutwater Martin to gain insights and make strategic contacts.
• For non-executives, temporary or seasonal work can be a strategic entry point to the outdoor industry. These roles often provide critical on-the-ground experience as well as networking opportunities, which can be valuable when aiming for permanent positions in the future.
• If you’re an executive with a background in technology, consider how you can apply your skills to spearhead innovative projects within the outdoor industry. If you’re seeking a balance between meaningful work and maintaining a tech-related role, consider contract work that allows you to work remotely. This lifestyle can provide the freedom to live and work in proximity to nature, offering the best of both worlds.
• If you’re an executive trying to change to a career in the outdoor industry, highlighting your personal commitment and experience in outdoor activities can be highly advantageous. Demonstrating genuine enthusiasm and knowledge about outdoor pursuits—whether it’s hiking, biking, camping, or conservation efforts—can resonate strongly with decision-makers at organizations within this sector. Use your personal stories and experiences to connect with peers, potential business partners, and customers. This not only establishes your credibility but also aligns your personal values with your professional objectives, making you a more relatable, inspiring, and therefore effective leader in the industry.

Final Thoughts

A career in the outdoor industry might just be the reset button you need if you’re looking to steer away from the conventional office setting. This sector isn’t only for those who don their hiking boots every day; it’s also for the strategist, the innovator, the communicator—people who are ready to apply their skills to help the planet.

So, if you find yourself constantly drawn to the window, yearning for the sights and sounds of the great outdoors, maybe it’s more than wanderlust. Perhaps it’s a call to a fulfilling career that awaits you in the outdoor industry. Whether it’s in a high-tech role developing sustainable gear or a managerial position at a national park, there’s a place for your expertise; building a career that not only satisfies but also sustains—both you and the environment.

Finding your dream job in the outdoor industry may require some initial flexibility and adaptation, but for those passionate about nature and the outdoors, the personal rewards often far outweigh the challenges.