Jim Dudley named president of Fortress Wood Products

James H. (Jim) Dudley, a veteran of 20 years in the treated lumber industry, has been named president of Fortress Wood Products, Inc., a division of The Lester Group based in Martinsville, Virginia.

Dudley joins Fortress from Culpeper Wood Preservers in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where he was vice president.

Fortress is a wood treating company producing wood for residential and commercial use from three plants in North Carolina--High Point, Henderson and Elizabeth City.

“I’m delighted to join Fortress, an organization with an outstanding reputation in the lumber industry,” said Dudley.  “Fortress is recognized for its excellent relationships with customers, built on top-notch service.”

The Lester Group bought Fortress in 1986.

“Jim will provide Fortress with outstanding leadership,” said George W. Lester, II, chairman and chief executive officer of The Lester Group.  “Fortress has come through the poor economic environment in solid financial condition, poised to grow as the economy expands.”

Last year, Fortress opened a new treating plant in High Point, North Carolina.