ImprovementDirect Replacement CEO Part (Package of 1)

Visionary and Eccentric Leader of Build.com

Some people find inspiration in challenge. The founders of Build.com thrived on such inspiration. In 2000, as the words "dot com" had investors running from start ups, Christian Friedland and his friend David Boctor were developing their Master’s Project in Computer Science at California State University, Chico. Despite the market’s opposition to more new online business, Christian knew that one could be built and succeed where other businesses had already failed.

Working at a local plumbing distributor, Christian was determined to offer what local hardware stores and big boxes lacked: access to a much greater selection of fixtures and faucets in an online format easily configured and browsed from home. With that in mind, FaucetDirect.com was launched as one of the first online sources for plumbing products.

In the early days, the company was operated out of Christian’s college apartment, while David provided the early funding. Christian and David then partnered with Craig Stilwell and with his knowledge of online marketing, revenue skyrocketed.

Much has changed in the 10 years since the company was started. More than 12 new websites have been launched setting new standards in the home improvement industry. The company was renamed Build.com to reflect the diverse breadth of product offered. Build.com has grown from a “school project” for its founders to an online leader in the categories of plumbing, lighting, door hardware, and ventilation with more than 200 employees who are dedicated to helping you with all your home improvement projects, both big and small.