Multichannel computer retailer CDW Corp. names a new CEO

Thomas Richards

CDW Corp. has announced that Thomas E. Richards will take over Oct. 1 as CEO for the computer retailer, which sells online, via catalogs and through its own bricks-and-mortar stores. He replaces John A. Edwardson, who has led CDW since 2001. Edwardson will keep his position as board chairman at least through 2012, CDW says.

CDW is No. 10 in the Internet Retailer Top 500 Guide. Under Edwardson’s leadership, CDW’s revenue has increased to $8.8 billion from $3.8 billion, CDW says. In 2006, CDW bought Berbee Information Networks Corp., an information technology services provider, contributing to the revenue growth. CDW gave no reason for Edwardson’s departure.

Richards joined CDW in 2009 as president and chief operating officer, overseeing sales, strategic solutions and services, marketing, and product and partner management. "Tom's industry background, his values and his track record of success make him the right choice to lead the company at this exciting time in its history," Edwardson says. "He has tremendous sales and operating experience as well as the ability to focus and align an organization. The board and I believe there is no better person to lead CDW to a more prosperous and successful future than Tom."

Prior to CDW, Richards worked at Qwest Communications International Inc., a telecommunications company acquired by CenturyLink Inc. in April. Most recently, he held the post of chief operating officer.