Hylbert learns the ropes at Lanoga - Brief Article

Home Channel News, Feb 5, 2001

On Jan. 1, Paul Hylbert replaced longtime industry veteran Daryl Nagel as the president and CEO of Lanoga Corp., in Redmond, Wash. In this role, Hylbert -- himself a well-known industry veteran who's held executive positions with PrimeSource and Wickes -- assumes control of one of the industry's largest pro dealer chains with 193 units and annual sales of $1.3 billion. Nagel is giving Hylbert a three-month crash course in all things Lanoga prior to his March retirement. In the meantime, Pro Dealer asked Hylbert to share his thoughts about the new position with Lanoga and some of the challenges and opportunities he sees ahead.

Tell us what interested you in Lanoga and convinced you to accept the position?

Hylbert: Lanoga's reputation as a strong company with good people, as well as its position as one of the larger players in the industry. The capable and supportive board of directors was also a factor in my decision. Finally, the opportunity to participate in the consolidation of what is still a very fragmented industry is a very attractive element in the equation.

What has Lanoga's ownership expressed to you about its short- and long-term goals?

Hylbert: They want to continue the growth that Daryl Nagel and his management team have developed over the last decade or so.

What role will you play in helping the company meet those goals?

Hylbert: I will be out front on the acquisition side seeking quality building supply dealers to add to our market coverage and will also look at ways to improve what we are doing and refine and focus our strategies.

What have you learned from working alongside Daryl these past few weeks?

Hylbert: Daryl and I are having a great time getting around and meeting the people at UBC, Lumbermen's, Spenards and Home Lumber both in the field and at the division offices. I'm learning a great deal from the Lanoga people about their businesses, and Daryl is sharing his substantial knowledge as we go.

How do your experiences with PrimeSource benefit you in your new role? And what are some challenges you'll face moving front a wholesaler to a dealer?

Hylbert: I've been fortunate in that my experiences with PrimeSource and Wickes have been very broad. We've been through a large number of acquisitions, and have been exposed to distribution on the retail, wholesale and manufacturer ends of the industry. Throughout, I've learned how important developing a team of capable people is, which along with strong customer relationships and supplier partnerships, lead to success.