Rocky Brands, Inc. Announces Appointments of Jason Brooks as Chairman of the Board of Directors and G. Courtney Haning as Lead Independent Director

Rhea-AI Summary

Rocky Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCKY) has announced a leadership change as Jason Brooks is appointed Chairman of the Board, succeeding Mike Brooks, who will remain a Board member. Jason Brooks has been CEO since May 2017, while Mike Brooks has served in various leadership roles since 1991. Additionally, G. Courtney Haning has been appointed as the Board’s Lead Independent Director. This transition in governance aims to strengthen the company's leadership as it continues to market premium quality footwear and apparel under renowned brands.

Positive

• Appointment of Jason Brooks as Chairman may provide continuity in leadership.
• G. Courtney Haning's experience as Lead Independent Director could enhance governance.

Negative

• Mike Brooks stepping down as Chairman raises concerns about leadership transition.
• Potential experience gap with Mike Brooks' long tenure and historical knowledge.

Rocky Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCKY) announced that the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Jason Brooks, has been appointed as Chairman of the Board of Directors following Mike Brooks’ decision to step down as Chairman of the Board. Mike Brooks will continue to serve as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors. In addition, the Company’s Board of Directors also appointed G. Courtney Haning as the Board’s Lead Independent Director.

Jason Brooks has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company since May 2017.

Mike Brooks has served as Chairman of the Board since 2005. He served as Chief Executive Officer of the Company from January 2005 until July 2011, and from September 2016 until May 2017. Prior to that, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company from August 1991 to January 2005.

G. Courtney Haning has served on the Board of Directors of the Company since 2000. Prior to his retirement, he served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Peoples National BancShares Inc., a bank holding company, since its formation in 1996. He also served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Peoples National Bank, a community bank in New Lexington, Ohio, from January 1991 until April 2015. In addition, je also served as President of Peoples National Bank from January 1991 until January 2015 and President of Peoples National BancShares Inc. from 1996 until April 2015.

About Rocky Brands, Inc.

Rocky Brands, Inc. is a leading designer, manufacturer and marketer of premium quality footwear and apparel marketed under a portfolio of well recognized brand names including Rocky®, Georgia Boot®, Durango®, Lehigh®, The Original Muck Boot Company®, XTRATUF®, and the licensed brand Michelin®.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210601005229/en/

FAQ

Who is the new Chairman of Rocky Brands, Inc.?

Jason Brooks has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Board of Directors of Rocky Brands, Inc.

What role will Mike Brooks continue to play after stepping down as Chairman?

Mike Brooks will continue to serve as a member of the Company’s Board of Directors.

Who is the new Lead Independent Director at Rocky Brands, Inc.?

G. Courtney Haning has been appointed as the Lead Independent Director.

What is Jason Brooks' history with Rocky Brands, Inc.?

Jason Brooks has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Rocky Brands, Inc. since May 2017.

Why is there a change in the leadership of Rocky Brands, Inc.?

The leadership change follows Mike Brooks' decision to step down as Chairman, aiming to strengthen the company's governance.