At Guardian, a changing of the guard

Tom Highley resigned as president and CEO of Guardian Building Products. The company has appointed Jim Becker president and COO.

Highly stepped down to move closer to his daughters, the company said, and will remain with the company until July 29.

Becker joined the GBP team in July of 2015 and was most recently Regional Vice President for GBP’s Northeast region. In this role, he has led the region to significant year-over-year growth and greatly improved branch optimization and operational efficiencies.

“Jim brings strong leadership and industry experience to the role, as well as great understanding of the GBP journey and its path forward,” says Ron Vaupel, President and CEO, Guardian Industries Corp. “I’m confident Jim will continue to advance the company’s culture and vision to create value for our customers and the communities we serve.”

Before joining GBP, Jim was President and COO of American Forest Products Logistics & Service (AFPLS), a two-step distributor of millwork and specialty building materials. Prior to AFPLS, Jim spent 27 years in numerous operational leadership roles in the building materials industry, including a successful 20-year career in retail home center and distribution operations management.

“I am excited to continue what Tom has started – to further the advancement of not only our company operations but also our culture,” said Becker.  “I believe strongly in the people, vision, and values I see at GBP and look forward to what this team can accomplish.”

Highly joined GBP in February 2015 at a critical time coming off the sale of its fiberglass manufacturing division. Under his leadership, GBP refocused its core business priorities and is moving forward with its goal to become the industry’s leading two-step distributor of building products. 

“We thank Tom for his strong leadership during this critical transition and wish him the very best,” said Vaupel. “We’re excited to introduce Jim who will continue the momentum Tom has sparked.”