Worldwide Distributors (Worldwide), the Kent, WA-based buying cooperative for independent retailers, has named Sean Maygra as president. Maygra will succeed Mark Williams, who plans to retire in 2019. As president, Maygra will be responsible for managing Worldwide’s business, including over $225 million of retail product purchases annually and the oversight of more than 50 employees. He will report directly to the company’s board of directors.

“We are extremely pleased Sean is joining the Worldwide team. After a patient and thorough search we know we found the right person to continue Worldwide’s success,” said Williams, who will continue as CEO until his planned retirement in 2019.

A graduate of the University of Washington, Maygra holds an active CPA license in Washington and brings with him nearly 20 years of experience in public accounting–providing audit, tax and consulting services in a variety of industries. Most recently he served six years as partner for BDO, a global network of accounting firms, leading its northwest practice which focused on serving private and public retail and distribution companies. During this time he assisted BDO clients’ executive management teams and board of directors with product development, inventory and development management, product pricing and other impactful financial matters.

“I’m extremely excited to be part of the Worldwide team,” Maygra said. “I’m proud to join an organization with such talented people focused on serving its members with such passion for the retail industry. I look forward to continuing to develop the culture and the strong relationships we have with our members and vendors in efforts to be the industry’s preferred buying group for independent retailers.”