AD launches Center for Independent Distributor Leadership
February 22, 2023 | By HPAC Magazine
The educational programming features three leadership certification pathways to educate and prepare the next generation of leaders for independent distribution companies. The new education initiative :
AD, the North American wholesale buying group made up of independent distributors and manufacturers of construction and industrial products (including the Plumbing & Heating – Canada division), has launched its Center for Independent Distributor Leadership (CIDL), a development program designed to educate and prepare the next generation of leaders of independent distribution/wholesaler companies.
The new education initiative features three leadership certification pathways:
- Leadership Experience: a four-year certification program designed for rising and next generation managers. The certification brings together cohorts of 25 to 30 leaders to build upon the success of independent distributors and ensure the sustainability of the independent business model.
- The Distributor Sales Leader: a program providing sales professionals with a long-term development track including courses and interactive workshops to learn sales strategies ready for immediate application in the field.
- The Distributor Operations Leader: this program helps operations leaders learn and implement best practices that optimize profitability and performance of independent distributors.
AD created each program’s curriculum in collaboration with instructors from top universities like Texas A&M University, leadership coaches and independent distribution thought leaders.
In addition, the CIDL offers the Distribution Manager Development Program in conjunction with Texas A&M University’s Industrial Distribution Program. This offering delivers an introduction into the financial, operational and sales disciplines for emerging managers in the distribution/wholesaling business.
