Alex Legall, a seasoned leader in the building products industry with experience at Carrier and Owens Corning,  joined Masonite Architectural as SVP four years ago. Since then, he guided the commercial door manufacturer through the challenges of COVID-19 and was instrumental in the recent divestiture, which laid the foundation for the transition to a new brand identity — Forte™ Opening Solutions, which was launched at the beginning of October. Legall is the new CEO of the firm.

Although the decision to divest was not easy, it was a smart one for both the commercial and residential door businesses, Legall said. “I’m grateful to Masonite for making this decision,” he said. “We’re in the midst of creating a new culture and vision for Forte Opening Solutions — building on the legacy and rich history of our business in the commercial wood door segment. It’s an exciting journey as we shape something that will last well beyond my tenure...It’s a really exciting time for our business and our team.”

The company already excels in creating innovative products that meet the evolving needs of today’s market. Legall said he is especially proud of  “what our organization did around developing the Aspiro® Defendr Door System,” an attack-resistant door system. Masonite collaborated with hardware, glass and other suppliers for a solution that meets the needs of the architects and school districts, while providing an atmosphere for students and teachers to feel safe. 

“It’s an example of what’s possible,” through collaboration. He added, “I believe there’s a lot more that we can do collectively as an industry, where we can identify a problem, then come up with ways where we can collaborate to solve that problem in a fairly unique way.”

Moving forward, Legall said, the company’s primary goal is to establish Forte as a strong brand that aligns with its values and ensure its actions reflect the brand promise. By doing so, they’ll build a reputation that resonates with customers while strengthening their market position. 

The company’s role in the community is also solidified through its volunteer endeavors. Legall and his wife also are involved with several charitable organizations. 

Legall likes to mentor others. He credits his father for teaching him the skills to see the potential in others that they might not recognize themselves. As a mentor, he said, he strives to uncover this potential and encourage them to “live up to that potential and create opportunities.”

In his free time, Legall enjoys activities that involve faith, family and friends, including sports, where he is a fierce competitor.

Quick Glimpse:

• Education: BA Economics & BBA Finance, Prairie View A & M University; MBA, Purdue University
• Number of years at the company: 4
• Number of years in the building products industry: almost 30
• Word that best describes you: Passionate
• Business mantra: “If you put the customer at the center of what it is that you’re doing or thinking, things tend to go well.”
• Best advice: “As a leader, I would say focus on outcomes, not activities. If you can frame the outcome, then you can define what activities help get you to that outcome.”
• Who have you tried to emulate: “My Dad taught me to always work to see the potential in others, operate with integrity, and give more to the company than the company gives you. If you have a passion for what you’re doing, it’s going to fuel you.”

About the Wood Industry Market Leaders: This marks the 16th year Woodworking Network has paid tribute to outstanding men and women who have made an impact, not only at their companies but within the various wood products industries. Since 2009, more than 100 industry professionals have shared their influencers, insights and strategies.  Read more about the 2024 Market Leaders and past honorees at WoodworkingNetwork.com/Market-Leaders.