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REI leader resigns over undisclosed relationship

REI CEO Jerry Stritzke speaks to the employees before the REI DC Flagship Grand Opening on Friday, Oct. 21, 2016 in Washington, D.C. REI officials at the co-op’s Kent, Washington, headquarters said Tuesday that Jerry Stritzke had resigned and will leave March 15. (Courtesy REI / AP Images)
Associated Press

SEATTLE – Officials say the president and CEO of outdoor retailer REI has resigned for failing to disclose a relationship he had with the head of another organization in the outdoor industry.

REI officials at the co-op’s Kent, Washington, headquarters said Tuesday that Jerry Stritzke had resigned and will leave March 15.

A company statement said the resignation came after an outside investigation into “a personal and consensual relationship.”

Officials also say the working relationship between REI and the partner organization, which has not been identified, found there was no financial misconduct.

REI board Chair Steve Hooper said since Stritzke became CEO in 2013, he and a strong team have consistently delivered outstanding results.

Stritzke apologized to employees in a letter saying he was sorry he didn’t disclose the relationship.

REI’s chief operating officer Eric Artz will become interim CEO.