NAW names new CEO

The National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors (NAW) announced the appointment of Eric Hoplin as CEO, effective Oct. 19.

Hoplin succeeds current CEO Dirk Van Dongen who will retire after a 41-year tenure leading the organization.

“Throughout the pandemic and recession, wholesaler-distributors have kept America’s supply-chain running, ensuring businesses have the goods they need to serve their customers,” Hoplin said. “I am honored and excited to join NAW and to advocate on some of the most important issues facing this critical industry. I look forward to continuing the tradition of excellence that has been the hallmark under Dirk Van Dongen’s leadership at NAW.”

Hoplin currently serves as head of external relations for Wells Fargo & Company in Washington, D.C. In this role, Hoplin has served as an ambassador for Wells Fargo, leading a team that drives the company’s reputation and policy priorities by partnering with NGOs, think tanks, trade associations, advocacy groups, academic institutions, and charitable organizations.

“I am delighted to welcome Eric to NAW, and I am confident he is the right person to lead the organization forward,” said Van Dongen. “Eric is an incredibly talented executive and demonstrated leader who understands the real challenges facing American workers and businesses in the current crisis and beyond.”

Doug York, Chairman of the NAW Board and CEO of Ewing Irrigation & Landscape Supply said. “Eric is the right leader for NAW. He has a compelling vision to guide the organization and our industry into the future, standing on the shoulders of Dirk and the incredible NAW team.”

The NAW is the largest distribution public policy association in the United States that represents wholesaler-distributors and a federation of international, national, regional, state, and local associations and their member firms.