The new PrimeSource names new CEO

Dallas-based PrimeSource Building Products, Inc., hired George Judd as CEO.

Judd will join PrimeSource on Oct. 5. He takes over from Bryan Kelln, a Partner at Platinum Equity who has been serving as PrimeSource's Interim President and CEO. Platinum Equity acquired PrimeSource from ITOCHU Corporation in May.

"George is a growth-oriented CEO and building products industry veteran who is passionate about leading people and serving customers," said Kelln. "He knows the industry inside out and has a great deal of experience driving profitable growth initiatives. He is the right fit for PrimeSource and with him at the helm, the outlook for the business is brighter than ever."

Judd was previously president and CEO of BlueLinx Holdings, a publicly traded $2 billion distributor of building products that was spun out of Georgia-Pacific in 2004.

Over his 13 years with BlueLinx, Judd is credited with driving the transition to a standalone public company, transforming the corporate culture. He also directed and launched the company's e-commerce strategy and introduced value-added and BlueLinx-branded products. Prior to BlueLinx, Judd had spent 20 years with Georgia-Pacific.

"I am thrilled to join the PrimeSource team and to work with its employees, customers, vendors and other stakeholders in maximizing the company's potential," said Judd. "PrimeSource has all the tools it needs to be successful -- a strong distribution network, dedicated employees and the financial and operational resources Platinum Equity brings to the table."

PrimeSource has 35 distribution centers throughout the country. Its core products distributed under the nationally known Grip-Rite and Pro-Twist brands include nails, screws, fasteners; tools and many other products.