Gierhart will work with the U.S. Biathlon staff to maintain consistency of programs through the 2022-23 season while supporting the board of directors in the search for a new CEO.

“Under Max’s leadership we have established a strong athletic and administrative staff team,” board Co-chair Bob Hall said in a statement. “U.S. Biathlon is fortunate for Jack’s willingness to step in and provide continuity. He is well respected in the Olympic sports community and will be able to both lead our staff and represent us with the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee.”

Gierhart has an extensive background in sport management. He was a key leader at U.S. Sailing. He started as a marketing director and rose to leader of the organization as the CEO for a decade. He recently completed a nine-month stint as the interim CEO of USA Fencing.

“Max, the staff and the U.S. Biathlon board have built a strong, focused organization with an exciting vision for the future of Biathlon here in the U.S.” Gierhart said. “I’m excited to help the team continue serving the biathlon community and pursuing its 2030 strategy, while also working to ensure the next leader has a clear roadmap and can be productive on day one.”

Over the past decade U.S. Biathlon has been growing in both its program footprint in the U.S. and with international results. Multiple athletes have achieved success in World Championships, the IBU World Cup Biathlon and international junior events. At the same time, biathlon clubs have been growing across the country, according to U.S. Biathlon.

In his interim role, Gierhart is expected to have a presence where he is needed, including at the organization’s office in New Gloucester, Maine, as well as the team’s training base in Lake Placid. The U.S. Biathlon Board of Directors is conducting a national search to recruit a permanent CEO.