Ace Hardware Executive and Leadership Team

William Guzik, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Ace Hardware, manages the financial health and strategic fiscal planning for the entire cooperative. Guzik's responsibilities encompass all aspects of financial operations, including accounting, treasury, financial reporting, and capital management, ensuring the stability and growth of the retailer-owned network. His oversight is crucial for supporting the independent owners and guiding investment decisions that enhance operational efficiency and profitability across thousands of locations. By meticulously analyzing market trends and financial performance, William Guzik provides critical insights that inform executive strategy and resource allocation. This leadership ensures Ace Hardware maintains a strong financial foundation, enabling continued expansion and support for its member stores throughout the United States.

Mathias Brown, the Chief Operating Officer & Partner at Ace Hardware, directs the operational strategies that underpin the cooperative's extensive retail network. Brown's role involves optimizing the supply chain, distribution, and in-store operational efficiencies that empower locally owned hardware stores. This leadership ensures that member retailers have access to the products and support necessary to serve their communities effectively. Mathias Brown focuses on enhancing the operational framework, driving innovation in logistics and store management to meet evolving customer demands. The strategic implementation of operational improvements by Brown directly contributes to the competitive advantage and sustained success of Ace Hardware's independent business owners across the nation.

Kane Calamari, the Senior Vice President - Chief Human Resources Officer and President - Ace Foundation at Ace Hardware, directs all human capital strategies and oversees the philanthropic arm of the organization. This dual role ensures that the cooperative's workforce is developed and supported, aligning with the company's core values of community and service. Calamari's leadership in human resources focuses on talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational development, critical for maintaining the high standards of the locally owned stores. Furthermore, as President of the Ace Foundation, Calamari drives initiatives that support community well-being and educational programs, reinforcing Ace Hardware's commitment beyond retail operations. The strategic direction provided by Kane Calamari ensures a robust internal culture and a positive external impact, supporting the cooperative's long-term sustainability and mission.

James Wennersten, the President & Owner at Ace Hardware, embodies the cooperative's foundational principle of independent ownership and localized leadership. Wennersten's role centers on the direct management and strategic growth of an individual Ace Hardware location, ensuring it meets the specific needs of its community. This hands-on approach involves overseeing all aspects of store operations, from inventory and customer service to local marketing and staff development. James Wennersten's dedication to operational excellence and customer satisfaction drives the success of the business, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit inherent in the Ace Hardware model. The leadership provided by Wennersten ensures a high-quality retail experience for customers and fosters a strong connection within the local market.

Brett Stephenson, the President at Ace Hardware, directs the strategic vision and operational execution for a significant segment of the cooperative's retail presence. Stephenson's leadership focuses on driving growth and ensuring the continued success of independently owned Ace Hardware stores within their respective markets. This involves fostering strong relationships with store owners, providing them with the resources and support needed to thrive, and adapting strategies to meet local consumer demands. Brett Stephenson oversees key initiatives aimed at enhancing brand consistency, operational efficiency, and customer engagement across the stores under management. The strategic guidance provided by Stephenson is instrumental in maintaining Ace Hardware's reputation for quality and service.

Dennis Kinney, the President and Owner Ace Air Conditioning at Ace Hardware, leads a specialized division focused on climate control solutions within the broader hardware retail framework. Kinney's role involves the strategic management of the air conditioning business, ensuring high standards of service, product quality, and customer satisfaction. This includes overseeing sales, installation, and maintenance operations, tailored to meet the specific needs of homeowners and businesses. Dennis Kinney's expertise in this specialized sector drives the division's profitability and market penetration, reinforcing Ace Hardware's commitment to offering comprehensive home solutions. The leadership provided by Kinney ensures that Ace Air Conditioning operates with efficiency and a strong focus on customer needs.

Julie Buchkowski, the President at Ace Hardware, guides the strategic direction and operational performance of key retail locations within the cooperative. Buchkowski's leadership emphasizes fostering a strong connection between the stores and their local communities, ensuring that each Ace Hardware outlet provides exceptional service and product selection. This involves driving initiatives that enhance customer loyalty, optimize store operations, and support the growth of independent owners. Julie Buchkowski focuses on adapting strategies to meet diverse market needs, ensuring that the brand's core values of helpfulness and reliability are consistently delivered. The strategic oversight from Buchkowski is vital for maintaining the competitive edge and sustained success of the Ace Hardware network.

Dan Jackson, the Owner and President at Ace Hardware, directs the comprehensive management and strategic development of an individual Ace Hardware retail establishment. Jackson's leadership is centered on ensuring the store's operational efficiency, financial performance, and deep integration within its local community. This involves meticulous oversight of inventory management, customer engagement strategies, and staff development to uphold the high standards associated with the Ace Hardware brand. Dan Jackson's commitment to providing exceptional service and quality products drives the success of the business, reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit of the cooperative's ownership model. The dedicated leadership provided by Jackson ensures a positive and reliable shopping experience for all customers.

Larry Giroir, the President at Ace Hardware, leads the strategic initiatives and operational oversight for a key portfolio of Ace Hardware stores. Giroir's role is critical in ensuring that these independently owned businesses thrive by providing them with robust support, market insights, and operational guidance. This leadership focuses on enhancing the customer experience, optimizing supply chain efficiencies, and driving sales growth across the managed locations. Larry Giroir works closely with store owners to implement best practices and adapt to evolving market dynamics, reinforcing the cooperative's commitment to local service. The strategic direction provided by Giroir is essential for the sustained success and expansion of the Ace Hardware brand.

Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Ahmed Butt, the Chief Operations Officer at Ace Hardware, spearheads the execution of operational excellence across the cooperative's vast network. Butt's focus is on refining the day-to-day functions that support thousands of independently owned hardware stores, ensuring seamless product flow and efficient service delivery. This involves managing distribution centers, logistics, and inventory management systems to meet the demands of a diverse customer base. Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Ahmed Butt drives initiatives aimed at enhancing operational scalability and responsiveness, critical for maintaining Ace Hardware's market position. The strategic oversight provided by Butt ensures that operational frameworks are robust, adaptable, and aligned with the cooperative's mission to support its member retailers.