La Crosse, Wisconsin-based First Supply announced the appointment of Mike Meiresonne to the role of chief operating officer of its distribution company.

After joining First Supply, Meiresonne has been on a steady progression through the regional and corporate ranks, the company noted.  Utilizing the tools gained through various leadership positions including branch management, sales management, general management and most recently as director of sales and marketing, Meiresonne is ready to become COO, First Supply noted. His career in the distribution industry has provided him with extensive experience and relevant business acumen that will provide a firm foundation and solid leadership for the organization for years to come, it added.

“I am extremely excited and honored to accept the position of COO – Distribution at First Supply,” Meiresonne said. “The company has a firm foundation and a prestigious legacy of more than 120 years to build upon. Spending my entire professional career in this industry has allowed me to recognize and embrace the ever-changing landscape in distribution and I will not be hesitant in trying new and innovative ways of enhancing the customer experience.”

Meiresonne will be based out of the company’s distribution headquarters in Madison, Wisconsin, and will report directly to the Chairman and CEO Joe Poehling.

“First Supply is very fortunate to have had Mike on the team,” Poehling stated. “Being able to appoint a COO of Distribution from within is incredibly valuable, including having a smooth transition to Mike’s leadership who already has a solid understanding of how First Supply operates. Along with Katie Poehling-Seymour and Todd Restel, the fifth generation of Poehling family company leadership, this team brings a young, energetic and potentially long and very bright future for the company.”

First Supply, founded in 1897, has 47 locations, including 28 distribution branches, one CDC and 18 kitchen, bath and lighting stores in the upper Midwest. It employs more than 700 people.