Industrial and contractor supplies buying group AD announced a new Independent Electrical Supply Division (IESD) Supplier Advisory Council; a strategic group of supplier partners committed to the future of the independent electrical channel.

The move comes one year after AD merged with IMARK Electrical — a combination that represented more than 700 independent electrical distributor members and resulted in the creation of the IESD unit.

The newly formed Supplier Advisory Council brings together a group of supplier leaders whose vision, expertise and commitment will help guide the direction of the Independent Electrical Supply Division.

According to AD, the launch of this important group reflects AD’s commitment to its governance model, which relies on the voice of member-owners and supplier partners to shape the future of independent distribution through active participation in committees and councils. The council will serve as a vital platform for strategic dialogue, industry insight and collaborative problem-solving.

Franklin “Sully” Sullivan, Senior Vice President of Industry Partnerships and Strategic Channel Accounts at ABB, will continue to serve as Chair of the council.

“This council is a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the shared belief in the power of independent distribution,” Sullivan said in a Sept. 8 news release. “I’m honored to work alongside such a talented group of leaders who are passionate about driving meaningful change and delivering value to our customers.”

Karen Baker, President of AD’s Independent Electrical Supply Division, added, “The IESD Supplier Advisory Council will partner with the Divisional Board, Product Committee and AD staff to help us build future programs that continue to help our members compete and win.”

The newly formed council will kick off at the 2025 AD Electrical North American Meeting, scheduled for Oct. 26-29 in Chicago.

IESD Supplier Advisory Council Roster

• Franklin (Sully) Sullivan, SVP Industry Partnerships and Strategic Channel Accounts: ABB
• Norman Adkins, Chief Operating Officer: Southwire
• Kevin Heffernan, Senior Vice President: Zekelman Industries
• John Hoffman, Executive Vice President, Sales and Demand Creation: Legrand
• Kraig Kasler, President: Cooper Lighting Solutions
• Jason W. Kinander, CEO: Electri-Flex Company
• Dave Merker, President: CANTEX Inc.
• Steve Simpson, Global VP of Sales: nVent
• Scott Teerlinck, President of Commercial Operations: Atkore
• Terry Watson, Chief Customer Officer: Hubbell Incorporated