Graybar’s Danna Stone Is Shaping the Future on the IDEA Board

As the electrical industry is works to transfer knowledge to a new generation, Danna Stone sees a clear opportunity as an IDEA Board member: equip people faster with better tools.

“We have decades of knowledge in the heads of our best sales reps,” said Danna, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Graybar. “How quickly could a new person get that kind of experience? That’s the kind of challenge IDEA is helping to solve.”

A Fresh Perspective

With a background that spans hands-on distribution, global operations, and executive leadership, Danna brings both depth and perspective to the IDEA Board.

Joining the board in 2024, she brings a thoughtful, inquisitive approach—asking the kinds of questions that move conversations forward, challenge assumptions, and connect strategy to execution.

“As someone newer to the board, I ask questions. Sometimes that helps the board reconsider how we explain or approach things.”

Danna’s experience at Graybar—one of the largest distributors in the industry—also brings a different lens. “We’re running in 50 states, and we have a number of subsidiaries and acquisitions,” she said. “That brings a different perspective, and I’m hoping it brings value to IDEA.”

Danna was drawn to the IDEA Board by the people around the table. “What intrigued me was the people on the board—the fact that I could interact with CEOs of manufacturers and distributors,” she said. “That was unfamiliar territory for me. I’m a little bit uncomfortable—and I like that.”

A Career Built on Operations and Strategy

Danna’s perspective is shaped by her years in distribution—starting at GE Supply and now at Graybar, where she’s held both operational and commercial roles. At GE Supply, she managed global expansion projects, including opening new entities in Bangalore and China to support large customers.

“I’ve worked in nearly every role within distribution—warehouse, sales, customer service, branch operations, and supply chain.”

Transitioning to Graybar, Danna applied her operational foundation to strategic leadership to oversee sales, finance, and operations — gaining a full view of the business.

Danna is also passionate about culture. “I focus on building really strong teams and finding the best way to utilize people and their talents.”

Trusted for the Long Haul

As the competitive landscape evolves, Danna believes IDEA’s unique ownership structure—by the industry, for the industry—is more important than ever.

“There’s real power in the fact that IDEA is owned by NEMA and NAED. That makes it a trusted partner, not just another vendor,” she says. “As more competitors enter the market, IDEA’s credibility, manufacturer relationships, and long-term focus are major differentiators.”

She also sees IDEA’s manufacturer relationships as a key strength. “That’s where the data flow starts. That connection IDEA has directly with manufacturers is something not everyone has—and it’s critical—if we as an industry want to build solutions that work.”

Shaping the Future

Danna is optimistic about IDEA’s impact on the future of the industry, especially with the generational shift in the workforce.

“The people coming into the industry now grew up digital. They expect automation, clean data, and seamless tools. They’re ready for what IDEA is building,” she said.

As Danna settles into her role on the board, her blend of operational experience, strategic insight, and fresh perspective will help IDEA strengthen its position as the industry’s go-to resource for product data and technology solutions.

Getting to Know Danna Stone

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