Why This Matters to Distributors: As distributors scale through acquisitions and digital investments, operational leadership is becoming critical to integrating systems, managing complexity, and maintaining service levels.
GME Supply, a distributor of safety equipment, tools and workwear for trade professionals, has named Tony Drew as chief operating officer as the company expands its operations and integrates recent acquisitions.
Drew will report to CEO Ryan Keogh and lead operational strategy, with responsibility for scaling the company’s platform, managing facility expansion, and supporting a broader product assortment, the company said Thursday.
He joins GME from HD Supply, where he most recently served as chief transformation officer. Drew has also held leadership roles at The Home Depot, BELFOR, and McMaster-Carr, with experience in operations, large-scale transformation, and acquisition integration across distribution businesses.
The appointment comes as GME continues to grow and faces increasing operational complexity tied to expansion, including added facilities, new product lines, and enhanced digital capabilities.
Drew said he will focus on strengthening execution and supporting the company’s growth strategy as distribution models shift toward more digital engagement.
GME Supply, headquartered in Columbia, Missouri, provides safety equipment, tools, training, and customized workwear to trade professionals across North America. The company has expanded in part through acquisitions, including its previously announced purchase of Wayne Enterprises to grow its custom workwear business.
The company said the new COO role is intended to align operations with its growth strategy and support integration of new capabilities across its platform.
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