Outdoor Cap Announces Three Additions

BENTONVILLE, ARKANSAS (August 26, 2024) – Outdoor Cap announced the additions of three new members of its team in Kim Jones (Head of Manufacturing), Tom Arens (Head of Technology) and Eddie Benford (Head of Product) this summer.

With more than 20 years of experience in the manufacturing industry and a rich background working with major retail brands like Nike, New Balance and Fanatics, Jones brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the team.

Starting her career as a business owner, Jones successfully ran her own company for two decades before transitioning to larger corporations in 2011. She has since dedicated her career to helping companies innovate and grow, with a focus on enhancing manufacturing processes and efficiency. Her expertise lies in introducing cutting-edge equipment and processes to facilitate greater efficiency and implementing Industry 4.0 practices, including machine metrics and KPI tracking.

“The company’s commitment to innovation and excellence is unparalleled,” Jones remarked, “and I am excited to contribute to its future growth and success.”

“Kim brings a level of industry experience to Outdoor Cap that is second to none,” said J.J. Reese, Outdoor Cap Head of Operations. “As we continue to expand our domestic decoration capabilities, Kim will be helping us set the bar for quality and execution in headwear decoration.”

Arens brings more than 15 years of experience leading IT and Analytics teams across various industries and a wealth of knowledge and a fresh
perspective to Outdoor Cap’s growing team.

Arens’ career spans Fortune 100 companies and tech startups, where he has demonstrated his expertise in developing and managing high-performing IT teams. His
previous roles include managing the Environmental Analytics program at Tyson Foods, leading Technology and Analytics teams at Acorn: The Influence Company, and serving as Chief Information Officer at ARcare.

A native of Arkansas, Arens is also deeply committed to his community. He dedicates his time to organizing cleanup efforts in state parks and national forests and serves on the board of the Keep Arkansas Beautiful Foundation.

“I am thrilled to join Outdoor Cap and contribute to a company that is not only a leader in headwear but also deeply invested in its community and the environment,” said Arens.

Benford has more than 20 years of experience as a Global Sourcing Executive and he brings a wealth of leadership experience designing and executing effective sourcing, product development and manufacturing strategies.

Benford has a deep international background, having worked with Nike for 15 years, in which he managed Nike’s Taipei, Taiwan apparel office for 3 years, Sears, Trimera Group and Strider Sports International, leading Sourcing and International Business Development. With a proven track record of establishing quality relationships, achieving significant cost savings, and maintaining a focus on product development and quality, Benford is poised to contribute significantly to Outdoor Cap’s success.

When asked about the most important element of his role, Benford emphasized the importance of people. He believes in developing their skills to become future leaders and key contributors to the long-term growth and success of Outdoor Cap. The company believes Benford’s expertise and innovative outlook will enhance its leadership in headwear, aligning with our core values and driving continuous improvement and high-quality solutions.

Outdoor Cap is a NSGA member.