Jay Scholes is co-founder and president of Outtech Inc., a renowned sales and marketing firm with more than 75 sales-team members who distribute to small and large outdoor retailers and distributors. He was appointed to the ATA Board of Directors in January 2016.

Also in 2016, Scholes co-founded and joined the board of directors for Origin Outdoor Group, the first firm devoted to investing in early-stage outdoor product companies and scaling them for sustainable long-term success.

Scholes also serves as a director on several other boards for Nation’s Best Sports and the Youth Shooting Sports Alliance. He is a founding member of the International Bowhunting Organization and, in 2011, established Quickfire Productions, a company that produces sizzle reels, short product blasts and high-end videos.

Outtech represents leading brands that include Easton, Gerber, Beretta and Realtree. As a sales representative, Scholes views archery-industry issues from the perspectives of retailers and manufacturers. He said Outtech must have strategies that work for all of its customers.

“We have the business side of our organization and we have the love of the sport,” Scholes said. “Those two sides should work hand in hand. We’re responsible for upholding our sport, for making sure our retailers make money, and ensuring manufacturers also make money.”

Outtech’s annual “Innovations” party has been the can’t-miss kickoff of the ATA Trade Show since 1999. Scholes said Outtech’s first Innovations party simply sought to give retailers their first look at new products from Outtech clients. That remains part of the show, but the extravaganza also became a fun, popular social event that gives retailers money-saving opportunities through one-night “Door Buster” discounts and other Show-only programs.

Scholes is a lifelong bowhunter who also chases turkeys and fly-fishes. His passion lies in teaching others – especially young people – to conserve and appreciate the outdoors as much as he does. Scholes enjoys spending time with his wife of 35 years, their three daughters, and “the world’s greatest grandson.”