Why This Matters to Distributors: ABC Supply is preparing for a change in technology leadership as it expands its use of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital systems. The appointment comes amid a broader executive transition that will bring a new CEO and chief information officer to the building products distributor in January 2027.
ABC Supply Co. has named Larry Sullivan its next chief information officer, succeeding Tony Vaden, who will retire Jan. 1, after 13 years with the company.
The Beloit, Wisconsin-based building products distributor announced the appointment Oct. 6. Sullivan, currently vice president of software, data and digital transformation, will assume responsibility for the company’s information technology operations as ABC Supply prepares for a separate transition in its chief executive position.
Sullivan joined ABC Supply in 2017 and has led initiatives involving artificial intelligence, data analytics, digital transformation, and technology strategy. The company did not disclose whether his appointment would result in changes to its technology organization, investment priorities, or digital development plans.
Vaden joined ABC Supply in 2013 and has overseen the modernization of its technology infrastructure and expansion of its data and analytics capabilities. During his tenure, the company also expanded the role of its information technology organization in supporting business operations.
“Tony has made a tremendous impact on ABC Supply, not only through the expanded capabilities he helped build but also through the relationships and culture he fostered within our organization,” said Mike Jost, ABC Supply’s president and chief operating officer. “He leaves us well positioned for the future, and we are grateful for his leadership.”
Vaden and Sullivan will work together through the remainder of 2026 to complete the transition, the company said.
Sullivan said technology will continue to support the distributor’s relationships with employees, contractors, and suppliers.
“Technology continues to play an important role in how we support our associates, customers and suppliers, and I look forward to helping advance that mission,” Sullivan said.
The technology leadership transition coincides with a change at the top of ABC Supply’s executive organization.
CEO Keith Rozolis plans to retire Dec. 31, 2026, with Jost succeeding him effective Jan. 1, 2027. The appointments will place new executives in charge of the company’s overall operations and technology strategy at the beginning of next year.
The changes have come as ABC Supply continues integrating its distribution businesses under a common corporate identity. The company recently announced that L&W Supply would operate as ABC Supply Interiors and Town & Country Industries would become ABC Supply Outdoor Solutions.
The naming changes are intended to more closely align the company’s businesses, although ABC Supply has not announced whether they will involve additional technology integration or changes to existing operating systems.
ABC Supply operates more than 1,000 locations across the United States and Canada. Founded in 1982, the privately held company distributes roofing materials, exterior and interior building products, and outdoor products to professional contractors.
Its distribution network serves contractors across multiple construction markets, requiring coordination of inventory, purchasing, customer service and other business operations.
The company did not announce new technology investments, financial targets, or specific AI initiatives in connection with Sullivan’s appointment.
ABC Supply’s leadership transition comes as large distributors face growing pressure to connect technology investments with improvements in operating efficiency, customer service, and inventory management.
Sullivan’s experience in artificial intelligence, data analytics and digital transformation gives ABC Supply a technology executive familiar with those priorities. His promotion also provides continuity as the company prepares for a new CEO and continues aligning its distribution businesses under the ABC Supply brand.
The immediate significance is organizational rather than technological. ABC Supply has not announced a new AI strategy, major systems investment or operational restructuring tied to the appointment.
For other distributors, the transition underscores the importance of coordinating technology leadership with broader business strategy, particularly across large branch networks where digital systems must support purchasing, inventory availability, sales, and customer service.
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