Jim Ristow
Buying group BrandSource, based in Tustin, California, has appointed Jim Ristow as chief executive officer. He replaces Bob Lawrence, who held the position since 1994.
The company’s board of directors conducted “an extensive search, both internally and outside of the company, for the right person to lead BrandSource into its next phase of growth, and we’re delighted to have found that person in Jim Ristow,” said Jeff Zeglin, board chairman. “Jim has a tremendous aptitude for leadership and is highly respected by his colleagues for his ability to offer strategic thinking and keen insights on the latest retail and industry trends. These attributes, along with a genuine passion for this industry, make him an ideal choice.”
Ristow joined BrandSource in 1999, serving most recently as executive vice president of consumer electronics for BrandSource, and co-president and chief business officer of the company’s consumer electronics purchasing arm ProSource.
“It’s an honor to be chosen to lead BrandSource and to carry on the ‘members first’ philosophy set in motion by Bob Lawrence nearly 20 years ago,” Ristow said. “Our mission is to continue being the strongest ally in the industry for the independent retailer. We will strive to bring best-of-class services and solutions to our members in every category that we offer, to help them successfully compete against big box retailers and online.”
