Holt & Bugbee Announces Leadership Transition as Phil Pierce Steps Down as President – Billy Collins Named President; Sean Herlihy and Eric D’Annolfo to Become Executive Vice Presidents

TEWKSBURY, Mass. — Holt & Bugbee announced today that Phil Pierce will step down as President on October 30, 2026, after 47 years with the company. Billy Collins, the company’s longtime Chief Financial Officer, will become President, while Sean Herlihy and Eric D’Annolfo will become Executive Vice Presidents and assume much of the company’s day-to-day leadership responsibilities.

“After 47 years, there’s a lot to reflect on and be proud of. It was a difficult decision, but we felt the time was right,” said Pierce.

Pierce joined Holt & Bugbee in 1979 and was named President in 1995, succeeding his mother, Mary Pierce. His tenure included the company’s expansion through its Mount Braddock, Boyertown, and Elmwood Park locations, along with an emphasis on collaborative leadership and preserving the company’s family-business culture.

Collins brings more than 40 years of experience as Holt & Bugbee’s Chief Financial Officer to his role as President. His primary responsibilities will include guiding the generational leadership transition and overseeing completion of the company’s new facility in Tewksbury.

Herlihy, currently Vice President of Sales, is a sixth-generation member of the family business. D’Annolfo, currently Vice President of Operations and Purchasing, brings more than 30 years of experience at Holt & Bugbee. As Executive Vice Presidents, they will assume expanded responsibility for the company’s daily operations.

The transition brings together experienced leadership and the next generation of the family business as Holt & Bugbee prepares for its next chapter.

Reflecting on the company’s future, Pierce emphasized the strength of its employees and the importance of investing in their success.

“Holt & Bugbee has always been about its people, and I’m proud of what we’ve built together over the years. We have a strong team in place, and I’m confident in the people stepping into these roles to carry the company forward while staying true to the values that have brought us this far," said Pierce.

About Holt & Bugbee

Holt & Bugbee is a multigenerational, family-owned hardwood lumber and millwork business with locations in Tewksbury, Massachusetts; Mount Braddock and Boyertown, Pennsylvania; and Elmwood Park, New Jersey. For 201 years, Holt & Bugbee has been a trusted name in premium hardwood and softwood manufacturing, built on the foundation of quality, efficiency, and respect for the natural environment. 

For press inquiries, please contact Marketing Manager Ben Pierce at ben.pierce@holtandbugbee.com.