Sportsman Boats President Russ Tomlinson Receives Boat Industry's 40 Under 40

Each year "Boating Industry" an online publication sharing news across the marine industry hosts a 40 Under 40 award for marine industry professionals. Making the list of nominees is no easy feat but even more difficult is winning the title as one of the "Exceptional Young Professionals" leading the marine industry. This year Sportsman's very own Russ Tomlinson, President, received the 40 Under 40 award for his exceptional work and growth in the marine industry.

Tomlinson stepped up into the role as President of Sportsman Boats at the beginning of 2024, leaving his role as Vice President; when Founder and CEO Tommy Hancock stepped down from the role as President. Upon arrival into the position he stated, "Stepping into the role of President at Sportsman Boats is both an honor and an exciting challenge. As we journey forward, I am excited for our team to continue delivering world-class products and services. We are just getting started and the best is yet to come," Tomlinson explained. "I want to express my sincere gratitude to Tommy for his invaluable mentorship and leadership over the years. His legacy is woven into the fabric of our culture and I appreciate his continued availability as a source of wisdom."

Since then Russ has continued to excel and push the Sportsman Boats brand even further with 2024 becoming a record breaking year for production numbers and sales. With the massive growth he's had in his career since helping start Sportsman Boats back in 2012 with Tommy Hancock to now as President of an industry leading brand it was only a matter of time before he would receive recognition as one of the best of the best in the marine industry.

One of the interview questions Tomlinson answered for Boating Industry's publication was, What first drew you into the marine industry? Tomlinson answered, "The allure of the marine industry stemmed from multiple factors. First, the chance to work with my father-in-law and industry visionary, Tommy Hancock, offered invaluable mentorship and insight to learn from the best. Second, being involved in a family business provides a sense of legacy and be-longing. Additionally, the prospect of joining a startup at its inception was attractive despite the anticipated challenges and demanding hours. This opportunity promised exposure to all disciplines of the business and facilitated accelerated learning while allowing me to play a pivotal role in the development of the company."

Tomlinson has been a driving force behind the team at Sportsman, inspiring not only the executive and managerial staff but also the team on our production floor. He's been a visionary since the inception of the Sportsman brand bringing ideas for product, processes and more to the company. It's leadership like his that have propelled the brand and will continue to propel the Sportsman brand in the future.

If you'd like to read the full interview from Boating Industry you can see their publication by visiting their website or CLICKING HERE.