How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?

12 years.

What drew you into the industry?

I was fortunate enough to be recruited by PDI right out of college to go through our Corporate Training Program. Going through the interview process, and being fully immersed in seeing PDI’s commitment to long-term growth through strategic partnerships centered around people and the positive impact the Company culture had on those people both professionally and personally made my choice easy to join PDI and this very special industry.

What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?

It’s the people and the true entrepreneurial spirit that exists in our industry. We have the ability every day to forge new ideas and drive growth through the industry. Our industry allows for true competition to exist – where those with a desire to win, the right work ethic, the right attitude, and a true understanding of what it means to be a part of a Team will always find a path to success.

What motivates you every day?

The opportunity to make a positive impact – both professionally and personally.

What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?

There is opportunity everywhere within the PHCP-PVF industry – and real opportunities for a career with unlimited potential. We have a complex and ever-evolving landscape within the industry, and that brings the ability for change. With change, there will always be opportunities to solve problems that make true, positive differences in the world we live in.

What has been your proudest moment in your career so far?

I am proud of the relationships I’ve had the opportunity to earn, and the basis on which those relationships have been formed - from our associates at PDI, our customers, our vendors and reps, and also other distributors from across the industry. More importantly, I’m most proud of the true partnerships that have come from those relationships and the true trust that has been earned over the years.

What is one thing most people don’t know about you?

I enjoy cooking – especially anything to do with being outside using a grill or really anything related to BBQ. It’s rare that my family and I are home on a nice day, and I don’t have the grill fired up – trying out a new recipe or working to perfect some old recipes are always on the docket.

Fielding’s journey in the industry began in 2012 after graduating with a degree in supply chain management from Auburn University. He joined PDI in June of that year and spent his first 18 monthsin the Corporate Manager Training Program—a rigorous initiative that provides trainees with hands-on experience in every aspect of the business. After completing the program, Fielding led various departments at the company, ranging from inside sales to showroom management to purchasing.

In 2016, Fielding’s hard work and strategic intellect earned him the position of General Manager, where he began running the day-to-day operations of PDI’s Purchasing, Human Resources, Showrooms, Training, Marketing, IT, Sales, E-Commerce, and Operations divisions. In January 2022, he became Executive Vice President and General Manager, a role in which he now oversees the daily operations and strategic direction of a business with more than 400 employees.

Fielding’s ability to successfully manage the daily needs of the company enabled CEO Coley Herrin to continue forward with executing on PDI’s growth and expansion plans. Under their leadership, the company has expanded to 26 locations across Georgia, Tennessee, and South Carolina; opened the first two Kohler Signature Stores in the Southeast; launched two dedicated PDI Lighting & Home showrooms; and ushered the company through a major rebrand for its 50th anniversary.

During the 2023 rebranding effort, Fielding worked closely with Coley and the Marketing department to ensure that the company’s modern-day consumer appeal carried forward its 50-year distinction as a family-owned business with great customer service. As a result, PDI’s updated brand mark pays homage to the company’s history while serving to reach broader audiences with a cohesive message of expertise and trustworthiness.

Fielding’s influence extends beyond PDI. As the current President of the Southern Wholesalers Association (SWA), he aims to foster growth and add value for SWA’s members. He is committed to listening to and understanding the needs of the association’s members, working to broaden offerings and strengthen professional networks within the industry.

Fielding is also at the forefront of deploying technological solutions to optimize operations and improve distribution efficiency. Under his guidance, PDI has implemented advanced warehouse management systems (WMS) and electronic data interchange (EDI) systems, reducing errors and enhancing inventory management. He continues to explore vendor-managed inventory (VMI) systems and the strategic use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to augment the flow of products and data between PDI and its partners.

Fielding’s appreciation for new cutting-edge technology is balanced by a strong connection with his team. He invests in both technology and the professional development of his people, ensuring that the implementation of new tools enhance the work environment instead of hindering the human element. His philosophy has positioned PDI as a resilient and forward-thinking company in the face of industry challenges.

Fielding’s leadership style is characterized by his commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability. Whether it’s navigating the complexities of the supply chain or preparing for future challenges, Fielding is focused on strategic planning and proactive problem-solving.

His impact on the industry is ever-growing. Fielding’s efforts to streamline operational efficiency and foster professional growth within PDI and SWA have set new benchmarks. His active participation in industry events and willingness to share insights and best practices demonstrate Fielding’s commitment to the broader community.

– Heather Cato, PDI