Jake Schlicher serves as Chief Strategy Officer at Ferguson Enterprises Inc., the nation's largest distributor of plumbing supplies, PVF, waterworks, and fire protection products. In this pivotal role, he spearheads the company's strategic vision, overseeing mergers and acquisitions, corporate development, and long-term growth initiatives. Schlicher's leadership has been instrumental in positioning Ferguson for sustained expansion amid evolving market dynamics, including digital transformation and supply chain optimization. His strategic oversight ensures alignment across Ferguson's vast network of over 1,700 locations, driving operational excellence and shareholder value. With over 20 years of experience in strategy and operations, Schlicher began his career at McKinsey & Company, where he advised Fortune 500 clients on growth strategies and turnarounds. He later held executive positions at Danaher Corporation, leading global M&A efforts that delivered multibillion-dollar value creation, and at Stanley Black & Decker, where he championed innovation pipelines resulting in 15% annual revenue growth in key segments. Schlicher's expertise in data-driven decision-making and cross-functional leadership has earned him recognition, including being named to Forbes' list of top strategy executives. Under Schlicher's guidance at Ferguson since 2020, the company has executed transformative acquisitions exceeding $2 billion, expanded into high-growth adjacencies like appliances and fabricated products, and enhanced ESG initiatives. His forward-thinking approach continues to propel Ferguson toward its goal of becoming the indispensable partner in the building and industrial sectors.