On July 23, trade organization Running USA announced the departure of Rich Harshbarger as its CEO, effective August 1, 2020.
A statement was released from the organization…
‘As you know, our industry is facing many challenges, including consolidation, globalization, increased competition, an urgent need to address diversity and inclusion, and the long-term economic and operational impacts of COVID-19.
‘These challenges, however, create new opportunities for our industry and our membership. As we focus on our growth strategy to rise beyond the challenges, we have determined that it is time for new leadership within our organization.’
Rich Harshbarger has been at the helm of Running USA since 2014. As the second CEO in the organization’s history, Running USA noted that… ‘he created initiatives that enabled growth, drove a meaningful increase in sponsorship revenue, expanded the scope and scale of our flagship Annual Conference, secured industry-leading additional benefits for our membership and positioned Running USA as a key leader in industry education.’
The organization argues that it is… ‘well-positioned for our next phase of growth, which we feel requires a different skill set from a leader. Given the existential threat of COVID-19 and its impact on our membership and the endurance industry as a whole, we are committed to providing the critical resources, education and guidance necessary to champion a return to racing.’
As part of its leadership transition, Running USA will be conducting a three-phased approach. This aims to ensure it can address immediate priorities and secure permanent leadership.
Phase 1: Transition
Driven by Kyle McLaughlin, Matt West, Jeff Matlow and Lonnie Somers
- Ensure seamless transition of current initiatives
- Support staff, partners and membership
- Identify an interim CEO to support day-to-day leadership of key initiatives
- Deliver forward-looking strategic plan, focused on providing meaningful benefits to members and supporting a return to safe racing
Phase 2: Interim CEO
Interim CEO evaluation is underway
- Support staff and day-to-day operations through Q4 2020
- Begin implementation of key goals and initiatives in the strategic plan
- Conduct nationwide search for permanent leadership
Phase 3: New CEO
New CEO search is expected to begin in September
- Usher in the new phase of growth for Running USA and our members
- Solidify our position as the leading industry authority and education source for the running community
No fixed date has been set for the appointment of a new CEO. The Running USA Board is working to ensure.. ‘a refreshed strategic vision for the organization that reflects the current realities of our industry and identify the right talent to lead it. We expect to know more as we reach Q4 2020.’
