Central States announces leadership changes

Tontitown-based Central States Inc. has named Doug Watts president of manufacturing, according to a Tuesday (May 27) news release. Longtime President Tim Ruger will transition to chief strategy officer.

Watts has more than two decades of manufacturing and leadership experience and will oversee operations, sales, logistics and customer service for Central States Manufacturing.

Ruger joined Central States in 2013 after working in leadership roles in automotive manufacturing. Under his leadership, Central States Manufacturing has expanded and averaged more than 25% growth year over year, bringing new products and services to the market, and opening five new manufacturing plants with two more set to open this summer. In his new role, Ruger will help Central States focus on new ventures.

“First and foremost, Doug was a strategic fit for us from a culture and customer-first perspective,” said Jim Sliker, Central States Inc. CEO. “Doug’s experience in the building products industry is only surpassed by his character, leadership, and dedication to excellence. He will be instrumental as we guide the company toward continued success and innovation.”

Watts previously worked for 22 years at Oldcastle BuildingEnvelope. There he worked in several leadership roles, including president of Architectural Glazing Systems, where he was responsible for profit and loss statements for business units across the United States and Canada. Over three years, Watts helped grow the company’s revenues by 50%.

Watts’ background includes experience in building envelope products – ranging from aluminum storefronts and curtain walls to windows and glass – and estimating, engineering and project management. He began his career in sales at Binswanger Glass and earned a master’s degree in business management from West Texas A&M University.

“I’m honored to step into the role of president at Central States Manufacturing,” Watts said. “This company’s culture of integrity, innovation, and employee-ownership is truly special. I’m excited to serve alongside our incredible team of employee-owners as we continue building on our legacy of excellence. I also want to thank Tim Ruger for his outstanding leadership over the last decade. Tim’s contributions have positioned us for continued success, and I look forward to building on that foundation.”

The 100% employee-owned company has 13 manufacturing plants and 1,400 employees, including 420 in Northwest Arkansas. The company serves more than 6,000 commercial, architectural, post-frame, and residential contractors and customers across the United States.