Forest River Restructures East to West Division

Longtime executive Eric Sharp's retirement prompts changes at RV manufacturer

Apr. 11, 2026 at 9:34am

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A highly reflective, minimalist studio photograph of a sleek, geometric aluminum model of an RV trailer, set against a plain white background and dramatically lit to symbolize the strategic shifts happening at the company.As Forest River restructures its East to West RV division, the company aims to maintain its market position and innovative spirit during a period of leadership transition.Elkhart Today

Forest River Inc., a major recreational vehicle manufacturer, has announced a strategic restructuring of its East to West division following the upcoming retirement of Group General Manager Eric Sharp. The changes come as the company looks to adapt to industry shifts and leadership transitions.

Why it matters

The East to West division is a key part of Forest River's business, producing popular travel trailers and fifth-wheel RVs. Sharp's retirement after many years of leadership represents a significant transition for the company, requiring a reorganization to maintain continuity and competitiveness in the RV market.

The details

As part of the restructuring, Forest River will be realigning responsibilities and reporting structures within the East to West division. The company did not provide specifics on the nature of the changes, but indicated they are intended to position the division for continued success following Sharp's departure.

  • Eric Sharp is set to retire in the coming months after serving as Group General Manager of the East to West division.
  • The strategic restructuring of the East to West division was announced on April 11, 2026.

The players

Forest River Inc.

A major manufacturer of recreational vehicles, including the East to West line of travel trailers and fifth-wheel RVs.

Eric Sharp

The longtime Group General Manager of Forest River's East to West division, who is set to retire in the coming months.

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What they’re saying

“Eric Sharp's leadership has been instrumental in the success of our East to West division over the years. As he prepares to retire, we are taking this opportunity to restructure the division to ensure it remains well-positioned for the future.”

— Pete Liegl, CEO, Forest River Inc.

What’s next

Forest River has not provided a specific timeline for the completion of the East to West division restructuring, but has indicated the changes will be implemented in the coming months to coincide with Eric Sharp's retirement.

The takeaway

The upcoming retirement of a long-serving executive at Forest River's East to West division is prompting the company to reevaluate its organizational structure and leadership to maintain continuity and competitiveness in the RV market during a period of transition.