Russ Kathrein
Russ began his Âé¶¹´«Ã½ career at a young age when he and his brother purchased and rebuilt their father’s lumber business. Russ has held leadership positions with 84 Lumber and former Builders First Source companies. Most recently, Russ was the CEO of a large independent Âé¶¹´«Ã½ dealer where he oversaw a dozen locations across Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. While leading these companies, Russ gained experience in sales, management, purchasing, and operations. In addition, he gained a thorough understanding of the Âé¶¹´«Ã½ dealer’s perspective.
Russ joined the Do it Best team in 2020 as a Business Development Manager, bringing more than 30 years of experience in the Âé¶¹´«Ã½ industry. Assuming the role of Vice President of Lumber and Building Materials in 2021, Russ ensures the Âé¶¹´«Ã½ team is positioned to support member growth by partnering with our dealers to provide the buying programs and services needed for our success.
Russ served on the board of the National Lumber and Building Materials Dealers Association (NÂé¶¹´«Ã½DA) and currently writes a leadership column for Âé¶¹´«Ã½.
Latest Articles
Leadership
What makes an effective team?
As a person leading a team, your goal is for that team to become more effective. But what makes a team effective?
Leadership
Start out on the right foot
Columnist Russ Kathrein shares things you can do to be a successful leader and get your new team to want to follow you.
Leadership
The Perils of Ignoring a Changing Industry
Columnist Russ Kathrein says, "They say change is inevitable, but when you look at the lumber and building material industry, change has been miniscule and comes in fits and starts."
Leadership
When work gossip can prove helpful
Having recently attended a show earlier this year, it had me thinking about a show I attended years ago in Chicago.
Leadership
Rising out of the ashes
Âé¶¹´«Ã½ Columnist Russ Kathrein shares about learning and leading through a significant loss.
Leadership
The dark side of leadership: When strengths becomes weaknesses
Russ Kathrein explains how typical leadership stereotypes can be harmful when taken to extremes.
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Leadership
Don’t confuse your emotion for passion
Âé¶¹´«Ã½ columnist Russ Kathrein explains why passion isn't always the best motivator.
Leadership
Leadership arrows in your quiver
Âé¶¹´«Ã½ Columnist Russ Kathrein explains the essential traits needed by a good leader.
Leadership
Are you spending your time on the right things?
Columnist Russ Kathrein advises on pitfalls to avoid when prioritizing your day.
Leadership
Style vs. substance
The old saying about lipstick on a pig applies here. If the content is garbage, no amount of dressing it up can make it better or correct.
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