Wood Stone Appoints Chris Hartford to Director of Sales
Bellingham, Wash. – June 5, 2026 – Wood Stone Corporation, a leading manufacturer of premium commercial cooking equipment, today announced the promotion of Chris Hartford to Director of Sales. In his new role, Hartford will lead Wood Stone’s sales organization and oversee the company’s representative network, customer engagement, and revenue growth initiatives. He will work closely with Guy Johnston, who continues in his role as Director of Sales Development, leading strategic growth initiatives and business development efforts for Wood Stone’s expanding portfolio of non-oven cooking platforms. This leadership structure reflects Wood Stone’s commitment to investing in its people, strengthening customer relationships, and building the capabilities needed to support long-term growth.
“Chris and Guy bring a unique combination of industry expertise, customer focus, and leadership experience that will help drive Wood Stone forward,” said Romer Vivas, General Manager and Vice President of Operations at Wood Stone. “Chris has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a deep understanding of our customers and representative network, while Guy continues to play a critical role in developing new opportunities and supporting growth across our non-oven product portfolio. Together, they position us well for the future.”
Hartford brings more than three decades of foodservice industry experience to his new role. Since joining Wood Stone as Eastern Regional Sales Manager, he has played an instrumental role in building relationships with consultants, dealers, representatives, and operators while helping drive growth across key market segments. Known for his collaborative approach and deep understanding of the foodservice industry, Hartford has become a trusted resource for customers and partners throughout North America.
“As Director of Sales, my focus will be on continuing to strengthen our relationships with customers, representatives, and dealer partners while building on the momentum Wood Stone has created in the marketplace,” said Hartford. “We have an exceptional team, industry-leading products, and a strong reputation for customer support. I’m excited to help lead the next phase of growth.”
Johnston will continue to focus on strategic growth initiatives for Wood Stone’s non-oven product portfolio, including expanding market opportunities, strengthening customer relationships, and supporting the continued adoption of solutions such as Plancha, rotisserie, and rice cooking platforms.
The promotion comes as Wood Stone continues to invest in innovation and expand its portfolio of commercial cooking solutions, including its growing lineup of gas and electric cooking platforms designed to help operators deliver exceptional food experiences while improving kitchen efficiency.
About Wood Stone Corporation
Founded in 1990 and headquartered in Bellingham, Washington, Wood Stone Corporation designs and manufactures premium commercial cooking equipment for restaurants, hospitality venues, institutions, and foodservice operations worldwide. With more than 35 years of industry experience and over 20,000 installations worldwide, Wood Stone is known for its craftsmanship, culinary expertise, and customer support. The company offers a broad portfolio of cooking solutions including stone hearth ovens, rotating ovens, deck ovens, planchas, rotisseries, charbroilers, and rice cookers. Wood Stone is proudly employee-owned through its ESOP program.
Media Contact: Tomoko Toyota, Director of Marketing,
Wood Stone Corporation
[email protected]
