(Photo Illustation - MetroCreativeConnection)

PARKERSBURG — Woodcraft co-owner and board member Samuel “Tres” Ross III has stepped into the role of chief executive officer of the woodworking retailer.

Ross assumed co-ownership of the company with his brother Spencer in 2022 following the passing of their father, Sam Ross, who purchased Woodcraft in 1987. He takes on the title of CEO after 18 years as executive director of the Ross Foundation, the family’s charitable organization that supports community development and educational initiatives in Wood, Ritchie, Pleasants and Jackson counties.

“I have wanted to get more engaged with the business and decided the most effective way to do that is as CEO,” Ross said in a news release. “I can give Woodcraft the passion and vision we’ve always had in my family.”

Ross said he anticipates a seamless transition into the role, crediting a board that he “trusts implicitly” and “a great leadership team that I got to know while working with my dad.

“Now it’s about taking what we have and cultivating the passion,” he said.

In a statement supporting Ross’ transition into his new role, Chairman of the Board Charlene “Charlie” Crooks said, “We are confident that Tres’ deep understanding of the business and vision for the future will ensure Woodcraft’s continued success.”

In addition, the company announced Mike Townsend has been promoted to vice president of distribution.

“Mike’s longevity with the company, combined with his passion for our products and operational knowledge of the warehouse, make him well-suited for this role,” Ross said. “There are opportunities for efficiencies in how we work on our warehouse structure and how it works, and I’m going to lean on him and his expertise to address them.”

Mike Davies recently joined the team as vice president of information technology.

“I see value in the strength that he brings to the table to really grow our IT department and take us to the next level,” Ross said. “I look forward to working with him and the talent he brings.”

Woodcraft Supply, LLC is one of the nation’s oldest and largest suppliers of quality woodworking tools and supplies, serving customers from 118 countries at a variety of skill levels.