You may have run across the news of Arctic Cat VP, Craig Kennedy, announcing his departure from the company. I talked with Craig about his personal decision to leave a brand he loves – Our work relationship has stemmed nearly twenty years, and I know firsthand Craig is truly passionate about Arctic Cat, its history,the consumers, employees and dealers – The choice to leave, wasn’t an easy one.
That said, my fear of his departure is probably shared by many of you when I think of who will take his place, and will that person share the same brand passion?
Instead of letting me think the sky is falling, Craig put my mind at ease and let me know longtime Arctic Cat employee, Troy Halvorson, will take the interim helm.
I’ve known Troy equally as long as Craig, and he has been an integral player within the walls of Arctic Cat, holding a variety of key Engineering and Product Management roles within the snow division. Currently, Troy is the Director of Operations, which means he’s responsible for production of all snow and dirt products. Strategic, dedicated and possessing a will to succeed, I feel confident Troy’s attributes will make the same type of positive impact on Arctic Cat, as the trail he’s blazed behind him.
Craig announced his departure to dealers today, and I’ve included his letter below for you to read. I wish him the best, both now and in the future, and am appreciative of his hard work and dedication to the brand.
December 17, 2020
My friends,
As you might imagine, today has not been easy. I have spent much of my life at Arctic Cat, and it will always be an important part of who I am. I am deeply appreciative of the opportunities I have had at this company, and did not make the decision to leave lightly. However, family comes first, and so I had to make the tough – but the right – call to step away.
I leave the company, and you as our dealer, in capable hands. All of you probably know Troy Halvorson, and know he is uniquely suited to his new assignment leading the Arctic Cat business through this transition. For those of you who don’t, Troy has served in just about every function during his 23-year tenure at Arctic Cat, knows our business and industry inside and out, and has an unmatched passion for Arctic Cat and its success. I know he will serve us, and you, well.
Richard Plunkett might be a new face to many of you, but he is the right choice to lead our dealer network and help you grow our business together. Richard has extensive experience across all aspects of TSV, giving him a depth and breadth of knowledge that few others possess. He will be tireless in his initiatives to build our business and help you become more successful in representing our brand and our products to our shared customers.
Thank you for all you have done to represent Arctic Cat, and to support me during my career here. I am proud to count you as partners and friends, and I will always proudly bleed Arctic Green. I can’t wait to see what comes next.
Sincerely,
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Craig Kennedy |