Utah-based Industrial Supply Company announced on June 28 that current company President Jessica Yurgaitis will succeed Chris Bateman as the distributor’s chief executive officer, with Bateman to retire after 41 years with the company. 

Yurgaitis has over 25 years of experience at Industrial Supply Company, and has been a member of its executive team and Board of Directors. She is also the great-granddaughter of Industrial Supply’s founder.

Bateman said he will work closely with Yurgatitis to ensure a smooth transition. 

 “As CEO, Chris made sure that even as external conditions changed, our customer service never faltered and our company remained strong and successful,” Yurgaitis said in a news release.

Chris Bateman’s History with Industrial Supply

Industrial Supply officials said Bateman was instrumental in driving growth, maintaining customer service and strong vendor relationships, as well as creating innovative solutions, such as the company’s marketing partner program.

“Chris spent much of his career creating unique agreements with our largest customers that allowed for the highest level of service at a preferred price,” said Phil Thompson, who has been the Chairman of Industrial Supply since 1978. 

Bateman joined Industrial Supply in 1982, when he began working in the company’s warehouse. From there, he quickly moved to sales, and eventually to a position on the company’s Board of Directors.

One of the founding members of the U.S. Industrial & Safety Division of Affiliated Distributors, Bateman built strong relationships with both suppliers and distributors.

In April, Affiliated Distributors honored Bateman’s decades of service to the member group.

Industrial Supply Names Andrew Ward CFO

Industrial Supply has promoted Andrew Ward from Vice President of Finance to Chief Financial Officer. 

“A Certified Public Accountant, Ward has a strong understanding of the company’s financial operations. As CFO, his expertise and strategic insights will play a vital role in supporting the company’s continued growth and financial success,” officials wrote.

Industrial Supply serves the construction, manufacturing, mining, government, and industrial community. The distributor has eight locations in the Intermountain West, which serve Wyoming, Nevada, Utah, Arizona and surrounding areas.