Recreational Equipment, Inc., aka REI, has announced Mary Beth as the company's new CEO. The previous CEO, Eric Artz, is reported to leave the position as he retires in March.

REI Co-op President and CEO Eric Artz will retire in March, marking a new chapter in the co-op’s 87-year history. Mary Beth Laughton, a former REI Board Director described as a “seasoned retail leader,” will join REI as president on February 3, 2025, before assuming full CEO responsibilities on March 31.

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Mary Beth Laughton, a footwear and fashion veteran who has held leadership positions at several industry giants, will soon take the helm at REI Co-op. The outdoor specialty retail giant announced Wednesday that Laughton will join REI as president on Feb.

Nike executive Mary Beth Laughton has been named incoming CEO of REI. Laughton has since August 2023 been head of Nike Global Direct to Consumer. According to her LinkedIn profile, she is still a member of Nike's leadership team. She will replace REI President and CEO Eric Artz, who will retire on March 31, the co-op announced Wednesday.