Venhuizen promoted at Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware appointed John Venhuizen chief operating officer, effective Jan. 1, 2012.

Venhuizen has spent nearly two decades with Ace and most recently served as executive VP supply chain, information technology (IT) and international. In this position, he helped grow the number of Ace stores around the world, as well as create a variety of successful support and incentive programs for retailers.

“John possesses deep knowledge of our company and truly understands our retailers and the needs of their businesses,” said Ray Griffith, president and CEO for Ace Hardware. “With his almost 20 years of experience at Ace, John has been a leading voice in the development of our global growth strategy and has shown an incredible dedication to customer service. He will continue to play a key role in the expansion and evolution of the Ace brand.”

Venhuizen joined Ace in 1992 and has served in a variety of regional and corporate-based marketing, merchandising, advertising and business development positions. As COO, he will report directly to Griffith.

"It is a privilege to work for our enthusiastic, entrepreneurial retailers who embody the small business heartbeat of America," Venhuizen said.