For 88 years, family-owned and operated Merit Brass Co. has driven consistent improvement in the pipe, valve and fitting (PVF) industry, solidifying its legacy as a trusted partner to wholesale distributors. With an unwavering dedication to service excellence, the company proudly showcases its seasoned strategic leadership team (SLT), including C-suite executives and vice presidents with decades of industry expertise.
This team is laser-focused on eliminating inefficiencies, advancing cutting-edge technologies, and fostering innovation to empower wholesalers with seamless, cost-effective solutions and an unparalleled ease of doing business.
“The work our SLT is doing is truly transformative. I believe the team is comprised of the most talented individuals in our space. Each member is ready to evoke real and lasting change. Having a team aligned like this is really Merit’s secret sauce,” said CEO Alan Lipp.
The SLT brings more than 100 years of collective experience to the company. Team members include:
Alan Lipp, co-CEO — With more than 43 years at Merit Brass and in the PVF industry, Lipp provides visionary leadership, driving long-term growth and fostering strong wholesaler partnerships through his family legacy in distribution.
Marc Schlessinger, co-CEO — With more than 41 years at Merit Brass and in the industry, Schlessinger spearheads strategic initiatives that emphasize innovation and sustainability to enhance wholesaler success in a competitive market.
Darren Hilliard, president — With more than seven years at Merit and 26 years in the plumbing and PVF industries, Hilliard leads the SLT and oversees day-to-day operations while shaping long-term strategy.
Michael Woloszyn, CFO — With more than two years at Merit Brass, 11 years in the PVF industry and 18 years in finance, Woloszyn optimizes financial strategies to improve profitability and reduce costs for wholesalers.
James Maloney, vice president of procurement — With more than two years at Merit Brass, 14 years in the PVF industry and 19 years in procurement, Maloney strengthens the supply chain by sourcing high-quality materials at competitive rates.
Glenn Bruce, vice president of operations — With four years at Merit Brass and 19 years in operations, Bruce streamlines logistics and production to ensure timely, reliable deliveries.
Don Russell, vice president of sales — With more than two years at Merit Brass and 28 years in the PVF industry and in sales, Russell drives customer relationships and revenue growth through tailored solutions for wholesalers.
“I think we have some really nice opportunities with the talent that we’ve assessed in our strategic leadership team to continue to enhance our business and really drive that customer experience,” Hilliard said.
Strategic Vision and Impact
Under the guidance of co-CEOs Lipp and Schlessinger, Merit Brass’s SLT collaborates on a long-term strategic vision that prioritizes customer success. Hilliard oversees cross-functional strategies aligned with market demand and profitability.
In operations, Bruce has expanded CNC capabilities to increase pipe nipple production, enabling wholesalers to meet rising demand. Order processing now leverages optical scanning technology to enter purchase orders directly into the ERP system, delivering near-perfect accuracy. Shipping processes have been optimized through batch picking, pick-to-voice systems and product reprofiling, resulting in a nearly threefold increase in picking speed.
On the procurement side, Maloney’s team works closely with sales to forecast and plan for customer demand. By implementing advanced forecasting tools and strengthening vendor partnerships, the team improves lead times and ensures cost-effective product availability.
Woloszyn is leading financial strategy efforts to adopt new technologies that reduce internal costs and strengthen wholesaler pricing models.
“Continuous improvement is a mindset across the business, and the sales team plays a key role in bringing customer feedback back into the organization, helping shape decisions that enhance the overall customer experience,” said Russell. His team has deployed a CRM platform to improve visibility across departments and is integrating AI to streamline workflows. Monthly meetings with sourcing teams help manage project activity and shifting demand.
Looking Ahead
With fourth-generation family members actively involved and a seasoned SLT in place, Merit Brass is positioned for continued growth. The company remains committed to helping PVF wholesalers thrive through stronger partnerships, innovative solutions and superior service.
To learn more about how Merit Brass can support your wholesale needs, visit www.meritbrass.com or contact the team directly.
