Thursday, July 31, 2025
AHC Hardwood Group, formerly known as Atlanta Hardwood Corporation, is undergoing a significant leadership change after four decades of stewardship under CEO Jim Howard. This transition marks the end of a noteworthy era for the company, which has been led by Howard’s family for 73 years.
Founded by Howard’s father, AHC Hardwood Group has grown from a small regional sawmill into one of the most respected names in the hardwood industry. With the company’s future now in the hands of a new leader, Howard will be stepping down from day-to-day operations but will continue his involvement as executive board chairman. The leadership change is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with Chris Rider, the current Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO), being named as Howard’s successor.
“It is with immense gratitude and excitement for the future that I announce, effective July 1, 2025, Chris Rider will be succeeding me as CEO of AHC Hardwood Group,” said Howard. “The support from our corporate board and the senior leadership team has been invaluable during this transition, and I’m encouraged by their continued dedication in navigating the challenges facing our industry.”
Rider, who joined AHC Hardwood Group in 2020 as CFO, expanded his role to COO in 2022. His deep understanding of the company’s financial structure and operational processes positions him as an ideal candidate to lead the company into its next phase of growth and innovation.
“Chris brings a wealth of experience and a forward-looking approach to his new role as CEO,” added Howard. “I have every confidence in his ability to guide AHC Hardwood Group into its next chapter while honouring the values and integrity that have defined our company for generations.”
The leadership transition is accompanied by key updates to the company’s executive team. Hal Mitchell will continue in his role as President, where he will serve as the primary liaison for AHC Hardwood Group’s joint venture with Lunawood. Mike Mooney, Director of National Sales, will work alongside Mitchell to expand the business development efforts and manage the sales of value-added products.
In addition to these roles, Jeff Leake has been appointed as Chief Operating Officer (COO), reporting directly to Rider. Leake’s appointment strengthens the leadership team, bringing a fresh perspective to the company’s day-to-day operations.
Howard’s involvement will remain critical during this period of transition. He will provide strategic guidance to the company’s executive board, continuing to shape AHC Hardwood Group’s direction. However, he will step away from the day-to-day running of the business to focus on his board-level responsibilities. Howard’s ongoing leadership ensures that the company’s core values and traditions will continue to be a guiding force as it moves forward.
As AHC Hardwood Group celebrates this major leadership evolution, it also marks a significant milestone in its operational journey. In June, the company’s Lunawood joint venture achieved a key achievement: the successful drying of its initial kiln charges. This operational success sets the stage for the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony at the facility, scheduled for September. The joint venture with Lunawood reflects AHC Hardwood Group’s commitment to innovation and expanding its reach in the global hardwood and timber markets.
Rider’s promotion to CEO aligns with the company’s broader strategic vision for the future. AHC Hardwood Group is focused on expanding its product offerings, increasing operational efficiencies, and maintaining its reputation as a leader in the hardwood industry. This vision is further supported by the new leadership structure, with key team members in place to ensure that AHC Hardwood Group continues to thrive in a competitive and evolving market.
“I hope you’ll join me in congratulating both Chris and Jeff on their new roles,” Howard added. “Their leadership will play a crucial role in the company’s growth, and I look forward to supporting them as they guide AHC Hardwood Group into its next chapter.”
As the company enters this new era, the leadership changes at AHC Hardwood Group underscore a commitment to both continuity and progress. With Rider at the helm and a strong leadership team in place, AHC Hardwood Group is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory in the hardwood industry, building on its long legacy of family leadership while embracing the challenges and opportunities of the future.
The company’s focus on sustainable growth, innovation, and operational excellence will remain at the forefront of its strategy. With key industry partnerships, such as the Lunawood joint venture, AHC Hardwood Group is preparing to expand its market presence and continue contributing to the global timber and woodworking sectors.
As AHC Hardwood Group continues to evolve, the company’s leadership transition is a clear indicator of its commitment to adapting to the changing dynamics of the hardwood industry while remaining grounded in the values that have made it a trusted name for more than seven decades. The next chapter promises exciting opportunities, and the woodworking industry will be watching closely as AHC Hardwood Group takes its place at the forefront of innovation and leadership.
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Tags: AHC Hardwood Group, AHC Hardwood Group CEO, american hardwood industry, leadership change, Lunawood joint venture, sawmill operations, woodworking industry
