Sporty’s Announces Retirement of CEO Michael Wolf
John Zimmerman named CEO effective January 31, 2025
Sporty’s CEO, Michael Wolf, will retire on January 31, 2025.
Batavia, Ohio, April 26, 2024 – Sporty’s, the industry’s leading provider of aviation products and training content, announced today that CEO Michael Wolf will retire on January 31, 2025. Wolf has been a part of the Sporty’s team for more than 50 years, and has served as the company’s Chief Executive Officer since 2008, leading the organization through significant milestones and growth. Sporty’s President, John Zimmerman, will assume the role of CEO upon Wolf’s retirement.
Michael Wolf’s journey with Sporty’s began in 1972, when he was just a high school student. His dedication and passion for aviation propelled him through the ranks to become Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, then CEO. “Michael has been instrumental in shaping Sporty’s into the industry leader it is today,” said Zimmerman. “His vision and commitment to excellence, along with his love for aviation, have left an indelible mark on our company.”
During his tenure, Wolf has not only overseen Sporty’s transition from a traditional mail-order company to a multi-channel retailer, but has also driven the company’s growth in cutting-edge aviation training. He has been an avid supporter of initiatives like EAA’s Young Eagles program and has personally flown more than 250 Young Eagles. While he has flown numerous aircraft in his more than 40 years as a pilot, Wolf has particularly enjoyed flying Sporty’s iconic 1963 Piper Aztec and serving as Captain and Chief Pilot within Sporty’s corporate flight department. He has built a strong team of employees who are well-positioned to lead Sporty’s into its next phase of expansion and leadership in the aviation industry.
“It has been an honor and privilege to lead Sporty’s during a period of such dynamic growth and innovation,” said Wolf. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and confident that Sporty’s is well-positioned for success under the leadership of John Zimmerman.”
MEDIA CONTACT:
Mark Wiesenhahn
[email protected]
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS:
Wolf also serves as Captain and Chief Pilot within Sporty’s corporate flight department.
While he has flown numerous aircraft in his more than 40 years as a pilot, Wolf has particularly enjoyed flying Sporty’s iconic 1963 Piper Aztec.
Sporty’s President, John Zimmerman, will assume the role of CEO upon Wolf’s retirement.
