Ace Retail Group has named Phillip Dalrymple senior director of merchandising, where he will lead product assortment strategy, vendor partnerships and category performance across the company’s more than 260 Ace Hardware stores in 18 states. His role will focus on strengthening merchandising strategies, optimizing product selection and ensuring stores offer products that meet the needs of independent-minded retailers and their customers.

Dalrymple brings more than 15 years of retail merchandising and leadership experience, with expertise in category management, private label development, product sourcing and omnichannel retail. His background spans product strategy, vendor relations and business operations, with an emphasis on driving category growth and delivering value to customers.

Most recently, Dalrymple served as president of Pnuma Outdoors and Heated Core, overseeing financial performance, budgeting and operations for a multimillion-dollar premium apparel business. His previous leadership roles include positions at Link Snacks Inc., City Lumber & Wholesale, Marolina Outdoor and Cabela’s.

“Phil knows how to build strong vendor partnerships and turn them into better choices for customers,” said Laura Byrne-Harris, vice president of merchandising and marketing at Ace Retail Group. “He’s a great addition to our team, and we’re excited about what he’ll bring to our stores and the communities they serve.”