SEATTLE, November 27, 2023 – Today, REI announces the hire of corporate communications and sustainability leader Roma McCaig as the co-op’s new vice president of public affairs and impact.
McCaig brings more than 25 years of experience at the forefront of communications, business operations, and impact to REI. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of impact and communications at Clif Bar & Company. Prior to that, she worked in a variety of roles at Campbell Soup Company, including leadership roles in operations, procurement and corporate social responsibility. She also serves on the boards of B Lab U.S. & Canada and Sustainable Brands.
“Roma is a well-respected leader who is known for crafting transformative change and impact at scale with iconic brands,” said Ben Steele, chief customer officer, REI. “Her significant sustainability experience will guide our broad community impact work as REI continues to provide a consistent voice of influence within the outdoor industry and broader business space.”
In her role at REI, McCaig and the newly created public affairs and impact organization will work to scale the co-op’s mission and purpose. This work will include internal and external communications, employee events and recognition, sustainability, community partnerships, philanthropic giving, public policy, government affairs and broader advocacy initiatives.
“I joined the co-op nearly 20 years ago and have been a loyal member of REI ever since as my premier source for outdoor, adventure, and travel gear,” says McCaig. “Getting to join the REI team is a dream come true. I believe in my core that business can be a force for good, and that everyone should have equal access to time outside.”
About the REI Co-op
REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 188 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.
