Celebrating Excellence: Lauren Parsons Named HBS Dealer 2024 Rising Star
Since 2020, HBSDealer and its industry partners have championed the role of women in the hardware and building supply industry. This mission includes recognizing leaders who exemplify business excellence and have the potential to make significant impacts within their companies and communities.
In July, HBSDealer unveiled the class of 2024, selected from over 600 nominations within the hardware and building supply sector. The honorees were distinguished in two categories: “Rising Stars” and “Business Excellence.”
We are thrilled to announce that Lauren Parsons, Sales Manager at Bliffert Lumber, has been honored as a 2024 Rising Star. Parsons will receive this award at the fourth annual Top Women in Hardware and Building Supply event in Chicago on November 20th and 21st.
In light of Parsons' recent achievement, we had the pleasure of interviewing her to discuss what this award means, her impact in her role, and why she chose to build her career at Bliffert Lumber.
About Lauren Parsons
Lauren Parsons has been a driving force at Bliffert Lumber for over two years, leveraging her 13 years of experience in construction sales. As Sales Manager, Lauren has made significant contributions to the company's success, including expanding the customer base and implementing strategic sales initiatives. Her commitment to team development has resulted in an increase in productivity and improved customer service. Additionally, she streamlined sales processes, enhancing overall operational efficiency. Lauren's dedication to excellence and her innovative approach make her a key player in the hardware and building supply industry.
Lauren, what do you enjoy most about your job and working for Bliffert Lumber?
Bliffert Lumber is unique in many ways, which is one of the reasons I love working here. The culture is outstanding—despite having over 500 employees, we maintain a close-knit, family-focused environment. The Bliffert family is deeply involved in the business, the community, and the lives of their employees, and their genuine care is evident. That speaks volumes to me.
Additionally, their commitment to customers is equally strong, which makes our jobs as Sales Representatives much easier. While our role is to sell products, our true focus is on making our customers' lives easier, whether through the quality of our offerings, the variety of brands we carry, or the level of service we provide. We go above and beyond to find solutions and simplify doing business with us. I enjoy the challenge of continually finding new ways to improve and serve our customers. Being flexible and creative as a supplier makes a world of difference.
What does this recognition from HBS Dealer mean to you?
It’s no secret that the construction industry has traditionally been male-dominated, which is why this recognition from HBSDealer is so meaningful to me. There are so many talented women, as evidenced by the recipient list, who are making significant strides in the industry. I’m truly honored that Do It Best nominated me, and I’m thrilled that HBSDealer selected me as a Rising Star. I hope that awards like this will inspire other women in the field to continue pushing forward and pursuing growth.
Why should local builders choose Bliffert as their supplier?
Bliffert makes things easy. We go the extra mile to offer a wide range of brands and products, and we understand the importance of exceptional customer service, especially when you have your own clients to serve. Working with a supplier that prioritizes your customers creates a positive ripple effect, making a significant difference.
Additionally, Bliffert has so many knowledgeable people who truly understand both their community and the industry. Combine that with our family-oriented approach, and you’ve got something special.
If you haven’t experienced the Bliffert way yet, give us a try—you’ll be hooked. There’s nothing quite like us out there.