SAN ANTONIO — Steves & Sons, a more than 150-year-old, family-owned company with an extensive history in the millwork industry, announced a significant leadership transition as part of its long-term succession planning strategy. 

Edward Galt Steves and Sam Bell Steves II, who have served respectively as chief executive officer and president/chief operating officer, will be stepping down from their current roles. They will continue to play an active role in the company as co-chairmen of the board of directors.

Edward and Sam Steves have been instrumental in guiding Steves & Sons to its current position as a leader in the industry. Their leadership and vision have been pivotal in the company’s growth and success. As co-chairmen, they will remain actively involved, particularly in overseeing the operations of the company’s new molded door skin plant in Athens, Georgia, ensuring a seamless transition and continued excellence in manufacturing.

In recognition of their efforts at the company, in the industry and in their communities, both were named Wood Industry Market Leaders by Woodworking Network in 2021. The San Antonio, Texas-based company is ranked #20 in the 2024 FDMC 300, a list of North America's largest wood products manufacturers based on sales.

Looking ahead, Edward and Sam Steves are passing the torch to the sixth generation of leadership. “Our great, great grandfather started a lumber company in 1866, and we are proud to say it is the oldest family-owned company in our industry. Entrepreneurism was passed on generation to generation,” said Edward Steves.

The new leadership team will include Gloria Galt Steves as vice-chair of the board of directors, Sam Bell Steves III (Tres) as chief executive officer, Doug Gartner as president, and Scott Lovett as chief operating officer of Steves & Sons. This team brings a wealth of experience, strategic vision, and a commitment to continuing the legacy of excellence established by their predecessors.

Gartner previously served as vice president of branch operations. With over 36 years of industry experience and proven performance second to none in the Steves organization, he brings valuable insights and leadership to the role of president. Lovett previously served as vice president of operations. In his expanded new role as COO, he will leverage his ability to enhance both the customer and employee experience at every level. His focus on operational efficiency and fostering a positive work environment for team members will further strengthen Steves’ commitment to excellence at all levels.

“I am excited to continue my partnership with my cousin Tres, and we are proud to announce this leadership transition as we continue to build on the strong foundation that my father Edward and my uncle Sam have established,” said Gloria Galt Steves, newly appointed vice-chairman of the board. “Our focus remains on maintaining the high standards of quality and service that our customers expect, while driving the company forward with new and exciting opportunities.”

Tres Steves, the incoming CEO, expressed his enthusiasm for the future of Steves & Sons. “I am honored to step into this role and lead our dedicated team. We will continue to uphold the values and traditions that have made Steves & Sons the trusted name in the industry, while embracing innovation and growth,” he said.

“We are excited to have Doug and Scott join our senior leadership team,” Tres Steves added. “Their combined expertise and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate. Together, we are committed to driving Steves & Sons forward, ensuring we remain at the forefront of the industry.”

Sam Steves said, “I am mindful that we have all been entrusted with a legacy passed down from generations of our family before us. We are confident this next generation will take care of this company during their watch, just as we were charged by our own father 36 years ago when we took over leadership.”

This strategic succession plan ensures that Steves and Sons will remain a family-owned and operated business, dedicated to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service for generations to come.