With the roofing industry set to grow 5% by 2026-2027, what key success factors should companies focus on?

Host Dinesh Chopra, President at Ayna, welcomes John Geary, a 40-year industry veteran, to explore the shift from a seller’s to a buyer’s market due to inflation and supply chain shifts. John discusses just-in-time inventory, subcontracting for labor shortages, and tech adoption like CRM apps and aerial estimation tools. He also highlights the rise of sustainable materials and how smaller contractors can compete against major distributors.

John Geary, former CMO of Nations Roof, has held leadership roles at Firestone, Bradco, and Owens Corning. A respected industry speaker and board member, he now advises contractors, manufacturers, and investors as an independent consultant.

Discussion Points

• John Geary discusses the shift to a buyer’s market post-2020, highlighting just-in-time inventory and subcontracting to manage labor shortages
• Major distributors like ABC Supply dominate, but John sees opportunities for smaller contractors to grow by mastering key skills
• He predicts 5% industry growth by 2026-2027, driven by pent-up housing demand and lower interest rates
• John is optimistic about future opportunities, supported by federal infrastructure spending and a stabilizing market

Ayna is a premier advisory and implementation firm in the industrial technology space, leveraging a team of experienced leaders to help companies and investors drive performance improvement and value creation. The host of this episode, Dinesh Chopra, is President of Ayna.

In this episode, Mohit Jaju, President at Ayna, speaks with Alok Maskara, CEO of Lennox International, about the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability. Alok highlights Lennox’s focus on delivering energy-efficient HVACR solutions using smart technologies, AI, and a direct distribution model. He also discusses the company's 2026 targets, built around the "GREAT" framework—growth, resilience, technology, and talent—and addresses challenges like supply chain disruptions and labor shortages through dual sourcing and automation.

Alok Maskara, CEO of Lennox International, brings over 25 years of leadership experience across advanced materials, water treatment, and HVAC industries. Previously the CEO of Luxor Holdings, he has held senior roles at Pentair, GE, and McKinsey & Company and serves on Franklin Electric’s board. Alok’s expertise in aligning strategy with long-term value creation makes him a leading voice in manufacturing and technology.

Discussion Points

• Alok Maskara, CEO of Lennox International, shares the company's mission to deliver perfect air through innovative, sustainable climate solutions, highlighting trends like electrification and energy efficiency, along with ambitious 2026 targets.
• To tackle supply chain disruptions and labor shortages, Lennox relies on dual sourcing, automation, and AI while focusing on talent retention and recruitment.
• Alok outlines Lennox’s "GREAT" framework—Growth, Resilience, Execution, Advanced Technology, and Talent—as a guide for strategic value creation and long-term growth.
• Reflecting on his leadership journey, Alok shares insights on staying motivated, navigating competition, and embracing technological advancements like AI.
• Mohit and Alok discuss balancing short-term demands with long-term goals, emphasizing accessibility through initiatives like “Ask Alok,” town halls, and site visits.
• Alok highlights Lennox’s commitment to continuous improvement, shaped by his diverse industry experiences, and his aim to leave the company stronger as its 9th CEO.

Ayna is a premier advisory and implementation firm in the industrial technology space, leveraging a team of experienced leaders to help companies and investors drive performance improvement and value creation. The host of this episode, Mohit Jaju, is a President at Ayna.

For More Information:

Alok Maskara LinkedIn

Lennox

Titanium Economy

Ayna.AI Website

Mohit Jaju LinkedIn

“We feel that we're at the forefront of digital transformation and see a tremendous opportunity to grow and to take share over the next five years…” - Rob Bodor

Nidhi Arora of Ayna hosts Rob Bodor, CEO of Protolabs, to discuss the transformative role of digital twin technology and AI in industrial manufacturing. Rob highlights how data analytics and AI are enhancing efficiency and customer experience, driving Protolabs’ leadership in the titanium economy.

As CEO of Protolabs, Rob Bodor has transitioned from internal operations to leading with an external focus. He has expanded the company’s digital capabilities, emphasizing AI, automation, and digital twins to transform manufacturing. With experience at McKinsey and other leadership roles, Rob brings a rich perspective on fostering innovation, empowerment, and calculated risk-taking.

Discussion Points

• Rob Bodor discusses Protolabs’ evolution from digital prototyping to a full-service manufacturing partner, highlighting its pioneering use of digital twin technology to automate processes and set industry standards.
• Rob reflects on his non-linear career, emphasizing the value of continual learning, diverse perspectives, and fostering a culture of innovation and empowerment.
• He explores trends shaping digital manufacturing, noting Protolabs’ use of AI and data analytics to boost efficiency and customer experience, with examples in pricing, quality checks, and operations.
• Rob concludes with insights on the industrial sector's future, driven by innovation and growth opportunities.

Ayna is a premier advisory and implementation firm in the industrial technology space, leveraging a team of experienced leaders to help companies and investors drive performance improvement and value creation. The host of this episode, Nidhi Arora, is VP of Content & Marketing for Ayna.AI.

For More Information

Rob Bodor LinkedIn

Proto Labs

Titanium Economy

Ayna.AI Website

Nidhi Arora LinkedIn