Eugster taking top seat at Baker & Taylor
By Susanne Ault -- Video Business, 1/4/2008
JAN. 4 | Baker & Taylor chair and CEO Richard Willis is stepping down from his role, and will be replaced by former Musicland chief Jack W. Eugster, effective immediately.
Eugster is a current member of the board at the wholesaler. For over 20 years, he worked as chairman, CEO and president of Musicland stores, prior to retiring from the company in 2001. From 2001 to 2005, Eugster was non-executive chairman of discounter Shopko Stores.
Willis is leaving Baker & Taylor to spend more time with his family.
Baker & Taylor management say they have been pleased with Willis’ leadership.
“Mr. Willis has added significant value to Baker & Taylor over the years,” said Gary B. Appel, VP at Castle Harlan, Inc., a private equity firm with a controlling interest in Baker & Taylor. “He has shepherded the company through a tremendous period of growth. We thank him and wish him well in his future endeavors.”
Willis added, “I would like to thank the people at Baker & Taylor for their tremendous efforts, as we have nearly doubled sales to over $2 billion over the last four years.”
Under the new corporate structure, Arnie Wight will continue to serve as the most senior operating officer in his role as Baker & Taylor president, working with all of the existing senior divisional managers.
