Richard is Search North America’s President and also a Senior Recruiter. Based near Greensboro, North Carolina, Richard has over 23 years of experience in management, sales, and marketing in the wood products industry. In addition to his successful career as a senior recruiter at SNA, he has also conducted numerous presentations and educational webinars for architects, designers, specifiers, and green building enthusiasts.
Experience:
Columbia Forest Products (CFP) — 1996-2020
Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) and
Specification Manager
Managed inventory for customers in the mass merchant, distribution, and OEM sectors. Conducted continuing education webinars. Performed LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) project support and documentation for clients. Worked closely with CFP’s marketing department to grow and diversify product offerings.
Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
Field Sales Representative
Territory size was over 12M sf/year and over $13M/year of business to CFP. Handled claims, advised on new products, and worked with CFP’s manufacturing and sales teams to manage and grow business. Customers primarily made cabinets and lab casework and were spread from Pennsylvania to Alabama.
Specialty Products Manager
Helped promote specialty product sales for the Eastern US. Conducted presentations for architects, designers, and specifiers at architectural firms across the US. Conducted training for distributors, end-users, and professional groups (including AIA, ASID, AWI, CSI, IIDA, and USGBC). Was instrumental in working on two of the best specialty product launches in CFP’s company history.
Sales and Marketing Analyst
Worked directly for the VP of Sales. Managed inventory and handled the landscape timber sales program for US and Canadian plants. Managed CFP’s UV finished drawer side sales program. Analyzed sales territories across the US and Canada. Worked on annual budget reconciling sales numbers with manufacturing targets.
Inside Sales Representative
Called on customers in NE, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwestern US states from CFP’s Old Fort, North Carolina plant. Sold CFP’s UV finished drawer sides and imports (including Russian Birch), as well as standard decorative hardwood plywood panels.
Education and Accreditations:
B.S. in Wood Products from North Carolina State University, 1995
LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Accredited Professional, 2004
CGP (Certified Green Professional) Accredited through the NAHB, 2010
To reach Richard, call 336-465-8657 or email richardp@searchna.com.