Milwaukee, Wis. — May 27, 2026 — Bliffert Lumber announced a leadership transition marking a new chapter in its 120-year history, naming Josh Brown Chief Executive Officer and President, effective July 1, 2026, and appointing Jay Walsh as Chief Operating Officer.
Longtime leader Eli Bliffert will transition from his role as Chief Executive Officer and President to serve as Chairman of the Board of Directors.
The transition reflects Bliffert’s continued commitment to growth while preserving the culture, relationships, and values that have defined the company for generations.
Founded in 1904 as a Milwaukee lumber business, Bliffert has grown into one of Wisconsin’s leading independent building materials suppliers, now operating 14 locations statewide. That growth has been shaped under the leadership of Eli Bliffert, who has guided decades of expansion while strengthening the company’s foundation of long-term relationships and trusted service.
As Chairman of the Board, Eli Bliffert will remain actively involved in the company’s direction. He will continue to support long-term strategy, maintain key industry relationships, and stay closely connected across all locations while continuing to engage with teams throughout the organization.
Josh Brown’s appointment reflects Bliffert’s long-standing commitment to developing leadership from within. Brown began his career with the company 25 years ago as an inside salesperson and has advanced through multiple leadership roles during a period of sustained growth.
Most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer, Brown played a key role in driving operational performance and strategic initiatives across Wisconsin.
“Josh has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and a deep commitment to our customers, employees, and industry partners,” said Eli Bliffert. “He understands what makes Bliffert special, our relationships, our values, and our commitment to service. I’m confident the company is in excellent hands moving forward.”
“I’m honored to step into this role,” said Brown. “I’ve had a front-row seat to the growth of this business, and I’ve been proud to be part of it. I look forward to building on that foundation and continuing to move us forward.”
As Chief Executive Officer and and President, Brown will lead the company’s overall strategy and continued expansion across Wisconsin, with a focus on strengthening operations and supporting long-term growth. Jay Walsh, who has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, brings extensive experience in the building materials industry. He will oversee day-to-day operations across all locations,
ensuring consistency, efficiency, and alignment as the company continues to grow. At its core, Bliffert remains guided by a simple standard: integrity, reliability, and commitment to the communities it serves.
About Bliffert Lumber
Bliffert Lumber is a sixth-generation, family-owned lumber and building materials company headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With multiple locations across southeastern Wisconsin, Bliffert Lumber provides quality building products, expert service, and trusted partnerships to professional contractors, builders, remodelers, and homeowners. The company remains committed to strengthening communities through integrity, service, and long-standing relationships across the construction industry.
