Contractor and industrial products wholesale buying group AD announced Aug. 24 that it has appointed Karen Baker as the new president for its Electrical – U.S. division, effective Sept. 6. Baker will also serve on the AD leadership team and have an integral role on the group’s Electrical – U.S. division board.

She succeeds David Kinsella, who departed AD earlier this Summer to join Hammond Power Solutions as its new chief commercial officer.

Baker, Horizon Solutions’ former COO, was responsible for leading several strategic functions and held multiple positions with increasing responsibilities throughout her 25 years in the organization. 

“Karen brings to AD a long track record of success in the Electrical industry and is a highly-regarded and respected leader,” said Marisol Fernandez, president of AD’s Electrical and Industrial business unit. “Her deep industry experience, knowledge of market dynamics, and rich background in independent distribution will be a tremendous asset to our team. I am looking forward to partnering with her and our divisional Board to continue to drive operational success, growth, and innovation in the Electrical – U.S. division.” 

In her new position, Baker will be responsible for the growth strategy and performance of AD’s Electrical – U.S. division. She will work closely with AD’s owner members and supplier partners to develop and implement strategies that help the group’s membership compete and win in the market. 

“I am honored to be joining AD and to be leading the Electrical – U.S. Division,” Baker commented. “AD started in the Electrical space and this Division is the foundation for what our organization is today. I’m excited to help AD write the next chapter in its future and look forward to working closely with our best-in-class independent distributors, supplier partners, and the incredible team of AD associates to further drive our mission to help our members succeed.”