Gordie Spater

Gordie Spater is a seasoned entrepreneur, facilitator, and the current CEO of Katahdin Group. With nearly two decades of experience leading high-growth organizations, he brings a rare combination of strategic insight, real-world business acumen, and an approachable, grounded presence. His professional journey began in advertising on Madison Avenue before moving into the ski industry, where he led marketing initiatives at Sunday River Skiway and the American Skiing Company. In 2003, Gordie and his brother Kitter co-founded Kurgo, a niche “dog travel” brand that quickly became a North American market leader. What started in a basement grew into a company with over 200 innovative products, distribution in more than 5,000 pet stores, and a loyal customer base. Under Gordie’s leadership as CEO, Kurgo posted 16 straight years of revenue growth, appeared repeatedly on the Inc. 5000 list, and ultimately sold to Radio Systems Corporation in 2018.

A longtime advocate of peer learning, Gordie joined a CEO group through what was then the Raffoni Group (now Katahdin Group) in 2009. That experience helped shape Kurgo’s continued growth and deepened his appreciation for the power of collaborative leadership. After the sale of Kurgo, Gordie transitioned from member to facilitator within the group, and in 2021, he acquired Katahdin Group to lead its evolution. Today, he guides mid-market executives through a proven process of strategic planning, team alignment, and peer-supported growth. Through Katahdin’s Strategic Ascent System, he helps organizations move from scattered initiatives to focused execution—working with executive teams to identify real priorities, foster internal accountability, and align long-term vision with day-to-day performance.

As a speaker, Gordie brings authenticity, humor, and depth to every conversation. He shares not just the highlights of entrepreneurial success, but also the gritty, real decisions that come with building, scaling, and ultimately exiting a business. Audiences appreciate his ability to balance sharp strategy with human connection—offering stories that resonate and tools that can be put to work immediately. Whether he’s talking about building culture from the ground up, launching products with purpose, or facilitating meaningful executive dialogue, Gordie meets his audience with humility and practical wisdom. He believes deeply in the power of working with “really smart people on their biggest challenges”—and that belief comes through in every session he leads.

Outside of work, Gordie is an avid skier, mountain biker, and hiker. He’s a devoted father of three, a board member of W.F. Young, and a former school committee member. He holds a degree from the University of Vermont, where he graduated cum laude, and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Above all, Gordie is a connector of people and ideas—someone who thrives in helping others unlock clarity, confidence, and momentum.