BWI Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

BWI has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to excellence, BWI specializes in the distribution and retail sale of garden and lawn products, impacting market dynamics through strategic leadership and operational efficiency.

Leadership Roles at BWI

  • Chief Executive Officer - Brandon Lawson
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - James Bunch
  • Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management - Jan Schmedemann
  • Chief Financial Officer - Robert Kulawiec
  • Chief Financial Officer & Secretary Treasurer - Susan Buchanan
  • Brandon Lawson - Chief Executive Officer

    Brandon Lawson, the Chief Executive Officer at BWI, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Lawson guides the executive team in navigating the competitive landscape of garden and lawn product distribution. This leadership role involves optimizing supply chain logistics and enhancing retail partnerships to ensure consistent product availability and customer satisfaction. By focusing on market trends and consumer demand, Lawson drives initiatives that expand BWI's reach and solidify its position in the industry. The Chief Executive Officer ensures that all departmental functions align with the company's long-term growth objectives and financial targets. Brandon Lawson's oversight extends to fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency across all business units, directly contributing to BWI's sustained success in the retail hardware sector.

    James Bunch - President & Chief Executive Officer

    James Bunch, the President & Chief Executive Officer at BWI, spearheads the company's strategic direction and executive leadership. Bunch oversees all major business operations, ensuring alignment with BWI's mission of distributing and retailing garden and lawn products. This executive position involves cultivating strong relationships with suppliers and key retail partners across the United States. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives focused on market expansion and operational efficiency, particularly within the field seeds, herbicides, and fertilizer segments. Bunch's leadership ensures that BWI maintains its competitive edge through strategic planning and effective resource allocation. James Bunch's role is critical in shaping the company's future growth trajectory and reinforcing its established market presence.
    James Bunch

    Jan Schmedemann - Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management

    Jan Schmedemann, the Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management at BWI, drives strategic initiatives and organizational change. Schmedemann leads the development and implementation of transformation programs designed to enhance BWI's operational efficiency and market competitiveness in the garden and lawn product sector. This executive role focuses on optimizing management structures and strategic planning processes to foster sustainable growth. The Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management works to align BWI's long-term vision with actionable strategies, ensuring effective execution across all business functions. Jan Schmedemann's leadership is pivotal in navigating complex market dynamics and positioning BWI for future success through strategic foresight and robust management practices.

    Robert Kulawiec - Chief Financial Officer

    Robert Kulawiec, the Chief Financial Officer at BWI, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Kulawiec oversees all accounting operations, financial reporting, and budgeting processes, ensuring compliance with industry regulations and corporate governance standards. This critical role involves analyzing financial data to identify opportunities for cost optimization and revenue enhancement within the garden and lawn product distribution sector. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other executives to develop financial strategies that support BWI's expansion and operational goals. Robert Kulawiec's expertise is vital in guiding investment decisions and managing financial risks, thereby safeguarding the company's assets and driving profitability. This leadership ensures robust financial oversight for BWI's ongoing operations.

    Susan Buchanan - Chief Financial Officer & Secretary Treasurer

    Susan Buchanan, the Chief Financial Officer & Secretary Treasurer at BWI, directs the company's comprehensive financial strategy and corporate governance. Buchanan oversees all fiscal operations, including financial planning, risk management, and capital allocation, ensuring BWI's financial stability and growth in the garden and lawn product market. This dual role involves managing treasury functions and maintaining accurate corporate records, providing essential oversight for BWI's retail and distribution activities. The Chief Financial Officer & Secretary Treasurer collaborates with the executive team to align financial objectives with the company's overall business strategy. Susan Buchanan's leadership ensures adherence to financial best practices and regulatory requirements, supporting BWI's long-term success and operational integrity.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding BWI Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads BWI?
    BWI is led by Brandon Lawson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as James Bunch (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Jan Schmedemann (Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management).
    Who is part of BWI’s executive team?
    The executive team of BWI includes leaders such as Brandon Lawson (Chief Executive Officer), James Bunch (President & Chief Executive Officer), Jan Schmedemann (Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does BWI have?
    BWI has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in BWI’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of BWI includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Transformation, Strategie & Management, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Financial Officer & Secretary Treasurer.