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After 26 years serving as CFO, Debby Thomas has been promoted to president of Herbert Lumber Co., Riddle, Or., effective Aug. 28, 2024.
She succeeds Lynn Herbert, who will continue as executive chairman of the ESOP board. Lynn’s father, Milt Herbert, founded the sawmill in 1947.
Lynn has been involved with the family business since an early age and, after returning from college, was placed in charge of the logging side of the business before moving into the timber department. There, he purchased raw materials for the company while learning all business operations under his father. In 2011, he assumed sole ownership of Herbert Lumber Co. when his parents retired.
The company called the move “part of a planned succession strategy supported by Lynn Herbert as well as the decision to transition into an ESOP just over a year ago. This strategy prepares Herbert Lumber Co. to continue to be the successful and well-known sawmill that it has been for the past 77 years. It is important to transition and prepare the next generation of leadership while focusing on growth and success.”
According to Herbert, during Thomas’ tenure as CFO, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, financial acumen, and a deep commitment to the company’s success. She has been instrumental in driving its financial strategy, fostering sustainable growth, and ensuring fiscal health. She has worked all office functions and has an overall deep understanding of Herbert Lumber’s product mix, niche in each market, and the struggles experienced within the lumber industry.
In her new role as president, Thomas will continue to bring her expertise and strategic vision to the forefront, focusing on broader organizational development, driving innovation, and strengthening the company’s market position.
