Guided by Pharmacists. Focused on Independent Pharmacy.
Louisiana Wholesale Drug Company (LWD) is pharmacist-owned and pharmacist-guided. Our leadership understands the realities of running a pharmacy because they have lived them. That perspective shapes every operational decision, strategic initiative, and long-term investment we make.
LWD leadership is not removed from the pharmacies we serve. We are accountable to them. Our structure helps ensure that independent pharmacy voices remain central in decision-making, financial planning, and advocacy. We remain grounded in the values that have shaped LWD for nearly fifty years: Respect. Service. Fairness. Transparency.
These principles guide how we manage growth, invest in infrastructure, and support pharmacies across the region.
Leadership Philosophy
At LWD, leadership is not about scale — it is about responsibility.
We move carefully and with purpose, aligning decisions with the long-term sustainability of independent pharmacy. Every strategic choice reflects our commitment to operational excellence, transparency, and shared success.
Meet Our Leadership Team
Our leadership team brings deep expertise across pharmacy operations, distribution, finance, and strategic planning, working together to support independent pharmacies and advance LWD’s mission.
Chad Gielen
CEO/President
Buddy Ryder
Vice President of Operations
Forrest Fontenot
Chief Operating Officer
Steven Delello
Director of Strategic Analysis & Category Management
Quinn Arwood
Chief Financial Officer
Andy Oaks
Managing Director
Sales and Consulting
Kent Alford
Director of Purchasing
Hours
8am — 4:30pm