Lawton has a “wealth of knowledge,” operational and sales experience, customer relations experience, team building skills and energy that he brings to work and play, according to Forest River

“Lawton’s contagious passion and enthusiasm, proven leadership skills and his product knowledge and strong dealer relation skills will undoubtedly add value to work and play and its valued dealers,” the company said in a release. 

Lawton served as general manager of Coachmen RV's Georgia division from 1984-2008. That division was not part of Forest River's asset purchases at the time of acquiring Coachmen RV, according to Forest River.