Gander Mountain CEO Resigns

St. Paul Gander Mountain Co. announced Monday that Mark R. Baker has stepped down as president, chief executive and board member. Baker resigned to become president and COO of Scotts Miracle-Gro Co., where he has served as a director since 2004.

David C. Pratt, Gander Mountain’s chairman of the board, will serve as CEO on an interim basis. Baker has agreed to remain as an employee of the company during a transition period ending on Sept. 30, 2008.

"During Mark's tenure, Gander Mountain has grown to 115 stores in 23 states and re-entered the direct business with the acquisition of Overton's and the recent launch of our new e-commerce site and catalog," said Pratt on behalf of the board. “With Mark's help, we have also put in place strategic and cost-saving initiatives that offer opportunities for improved performance during the remainder of fiscal 2008 and beyond."

Gander said its board will begin the search for a permanent CEO immediately.