Nautilus Adds Two Experts to Board; CEO Jim Barr Says They Bring Key Omnichannel & Digital Expertise
The company says new directors join at a pivotal time.
Nautilus, Inc. — which designates itself as “an innovation leader in personalized connected home fitness” and is led by CEO Jim Barr — has added two new talents to its Board of Directors, Ms. Kelly Hall and Mr. Shailesh Prakash. In its release, the company notes these additions come at “a pivotal time for the company, as it continues its long-term strategic plan.”
Speaking exclusively with AthletechNews.com on the news, Barr noted why they’re so happy to have these two leaders.
“We’re pleased to welcome Kelley and Shailesh to our board and look forward to having their guidance as we continue executing our long-term business transformation strategy,” Nautilus CEO Jim Barr told Athletech News. “They bring critical expertise in managing omnichannel strategies and leading digital growth initiatives, which are two key components of the future growth of Nautilus, Inc.”
Filling pivotal roles
Hall is recognized for her expertise in financial decision-making. Currently she’s Senior VP/Chief Financial Officer at REI, which she joined in 2019, describing it as a company with a “mission to connect more people to a life outdoors.” REI’s a “specialty outdoor retailer,” providing “best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service.” Hall handles financial planning and analysis, taxes, asset protection teams, and an extensive list of other financial leadership roles.
Prakash is joining Nautilus while handling extensive responsibilities as the Chief Information Officer and Vice President of Digital Product Development at The Washington Post. In 2017, Fast Company named Prakash “One of the Most Creative People.” Beginning his career as a software engineer, he said about that nomination that at the Post, “We’ve shifted from an IT mind-set to an engineering one,” which ensures “that our journalism can reach everyone.”
The Nautilus release notes that Prakash has brought the Post “tremendous digital growth,” breaking ground in “all aspects of product development and technology, including web, mobile, video, print and advertising.”
Expanding despite downward trend
Nautilus leadership provided insights from both new board members. Hall’s message emphasizes that this is an “exciting time in the company’s evolution,” while Prakash is looking forward to being part of Nautilus during “this transformational time in the company’s journey as a leading innovator in connected home fitness… .”
Indeed, Nautilus tells investors that it’s “poised for growth,” and that it’s “…well-positioned in large, growing markets with favorable demographic trends.” It continues that the company “… is committed to continue strengthening its omni-channel distribution strategy, digital innovation,” and more.
