David Sturdivant

#5555 | Member since 1991
Alexander City, Alabama | 9 locations

Russell Lands President David Sturdivant started his career as an auditor but soon realized he wanted to be involved in operating businesses instead of auditing them. In 1993 he joined Russell Lands and began overseeing the financial accounts for all company entities. After working with the numerous operating divisions, he was drawn to Russell Do it Centers® and Russell Building Supply. “I didn’t grow up in the industry, but there was something intangible that really attracted me to it,” David says. “I’ve been exposed to a diversified group of industries at Russell Lands, and I feel a unique and special connection with the home improvement industry. There’s something special about the people in our industry. They’re very genuine, hard-working, and down to earth,” says David. And it’s why he loves his career.

Previously as COO and CFO, David had direct oversight of the stores and lumberyards and enjoyed supporting the personalized service provided to pros and DIYers alike—from helping find a small plumbing part to delivering a whole house package. “We’re always looking for opportunities for our employees to build their industry knowledge,” he says. “And we encourage our experienced team members to mentor our younger staff in offering the best service.” Promoted to President in early 2024, today David manages a healthy real estate portfolio and a wide variety of other entities, including a marine division, Russell Do it Center hardware and building supply stores, and an installed-sales design studio. 

David loves growing his industry knowledge, so accepting the call to serve on our board of directors was easy. “It’s an honor and an exciting opportunity to learn more about Do it Best and I look forward to contributing to the co-op’s growth,” he says. “I don’t take this responsibility lightly. As board members running very different businesses, we come with many different perspectives. But we work together to make the best possible decisions for the benefit of the entire membership.”

At a glance

Area: Alabama
Store type: Home centers with lumberyards
Market: Suburban and rural
Core categories: Hardware, LBM, paint, plumbing, tools
Best advice: Treat others as you would like to be treated
Favorite activity outside of work: Playing the drums

HBSDealer Hardware All Star (2019)