Bergquist hires director of purchasing

Stearns

Wholesale propane equipment distributor Bergquist named Andy Stearns as the company’s director of purchasing.

Stearns will work with Bergquist purchasing agent Pam Sienko to provide a strategic-purchasing presence. He will also work with Jake Barry, a buyer who joined the team in January, along with vendors to obtain propane equipment items to meet customers’ supply needs.

“In 2021, it was evident our global supply chain showed an imbalance and limitations. In response, we made the decision to solidify our purchasing team,” Lauren Clark, president of Bergquist, says. “We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Andy and help drive our business forward. He truly understands our industry and has a passion for helping our customers reach their business objectives.”

Stearns previously worked at Bergquist as a distribution specialist from 2005 to 2012.

Before returning to Bergquist, Stearns worked for Parker Hannifin Corp. as a distribution supervisor in 2012. He then transitioned to Newell Brands in 2013 as a distribution supervisor. He worked up to operations manager, where he oversaw all aspects of inbound, outbound and transportation functions for the Bowling Green Distribution Center.

“The opportunity to come back, especially during a time when supply chain has become the pinnacle of business performance, was something I couldn’t pass up,” Stearns says. “I knew that combined with my background and recent leadership experience, it was the perfect time to be part of the Bergquist purchasing team.”

Bergquist operates as a family-owned entity, providing wholesale propane equipment and appliances to companies across the U.S. and worldwide. Bergquist’s staff is dispersed throughout five national sales and distribution centers.