Weston Forest Announces Leadership Transition As President And CEO Steve Rhone Departs; Doug Robinson Named Executive Chairman

Weston Forest announces the retirement of president and CEO Steve Rhone, following 38 years of remarkable contributions to the organization. Concurrently, Doug Robinson has been appointed Executive Chairman, ushering in a new era of strategic leadership at Weston Forest.

Steve’s journey with Weston Forest began in 1987. Over nearly four decades, he made an indelible mark—rising through the ranks from the operations floor to the executive office. His leadership was grounded in integrity, humility, and a steadfast belief in people and purpose. Throughout his journey, Steve remained grounded in a simple but powerful principle: put people first. He made it his mission to create meaningful opportunities for growth, learning, and leadership across the organization. His relentless advocacy for employee development helped shape a culture where individuals are empowered to take initiative, challenge themselves, and build lasting careers.

“I joined Weston Forest as a teenager piling lumber in the mill—and words can’t capture how deeply fulfilling it’s been to grow alongside this company. From those early days to serving as president and CEO, I’ve been surrounded by remarkable people whose dedication, ingenuity, and passion brought out the best in each of us,” Steve said, reflecting on his journey.

Steve’s impact extended beyond Weston Forest. He envisioned a company that didn’t just succeed, but one that contributed meaningfully to the broader forest products industry. With a rare ability to connect with everyone from mill operators to CEOs, he fostered strong relationships built on trust, respect, and shared purpose. His long-term thinking and passion for innovation have laid a foundation that will guide Weston Forest well into the future.

The Weston Forest Board stated:

“Steve has always led with heart, with humility, and with a clear sense of responsibility to our people. He believed that when you invest in people and stay true to your values, the results will follow. That belief shaped who we are today. As we look ahead, Doug’s leadership will help guide Weston Forest through this next chapter with focus, agility, and continuity.”

Doug Robinson. Photo: Weston Forest.

Doug Robinson, newly named Executive Chairman, brings over 30 years of transformative leadership experience across global retail, lumber, building materials, and industrial supply sectors. Doug began his career at 84 Lumber Company, rising to vice-president of purchasing, and later served as CEO of Beaver Lumber, where he led a successful turnaround and divestiture. As president of international operations at Lowe’s, Doug was instrumental in expanding Lowe’s international presence and driving its e-commerce transformation into Canada, Mexico, and Australia, growing those markets to $5 billion in revenue. He also led Lowe’s digital and omni-channel transformation, modernizing access to building materials across retail and pro channels. His career has spanned CEO roles, board directorships, and operational turnarounds across both B2B and B2C sectors. Doug is recognized for his strategic clarity, operational discipline, and ability to lead companies through growth and change.

Steve’s departure marks the close of a remarkable era in Weston Forest’s history—defined by trust, purpose, and people-first leadership. As we express our sincere gratitude for the impact Steve has made, we also recognize the significance of Doug Robinson’s appointment as Executive Chairman. Doug has been serving on the Weston Forest Board since 2021, and with his deep industry knowledge and steady leadership he offer continuity in values as Weston Forest turns this important page in its story.