NITRO, W.Va. — On behalf of the Fruth Pharmacy board of directors, Lynne Fruth, chairman and president, has announced the promotion of Andy Becker to chief executive officer. He brings a wealth of experience, leadership and vision to his new role and will be based at Fruth’s corporate headquarters here. Lynne Fruth will continue in a part-time role as the president and chairman of the board. Becker will report to the Fruth board of directors and will begin his new role immediately.
Becker previously held the position of vice president at Fruth. He joined the company in 2016 from Tulsa, Okla., where he built a distinguished career in pharmacy operations and management. A licensed doctor of pharmacy through the Oklahoma Board of Pharmacy, he earned his degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Speaking on his promotion, Lynne Fruth stated, “Andy is one of the smartest pharmacy executives in the country. His knowledge of the industry and his tremendous skills in data analysis and other technology areas will serve Fruth Pharmacy well heading into the future. I am thrilled to be handing the reins to a pharmacist who has proven that he is hard working, intelligent and an effective leader.”
Becker has been a valued member and continues to be a vital part of the company’s vision of growth and success for the future and has distinguished himself while at Fruth Pharmacy. Along with Drew Massey, he provided support to communities by developing a way for people to get COVID tests without email access. He has also been a presenter at national meetings, including National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA) and Southern Drug. Becker was also instrumental in the passage of several critical pharmacy laws in West Virginia.
In his role as CEO, Becker will oversee the strategic direction of the company while working closely with Drew Massey, director of pharmacy operations; Larry Anderson, director of operations; and Lynne Fruth to manage all aspects of the entire company’s operations.
“I enjoy working for Fruth because it brings me back to my roots — where people are treated like friends and family,” Becker shared. “I started my career at an independent pharmacy and have always enjoyed that kind of culture. Fruth is like a big family. Everyone is treated with courtesy, respect and kindness,” he added.
Founded in 1952, Fruth remains committed to providing personalized care and trusted pharmacy services across the region. With Andy Becker at the helm, Fruth is well positioned to continue delivering on its mission to serve its communities with compassion and excellence. Andy resides in Hurricane with his wife Brandi and son Kyle, a student at WVU.
“Fruth Pharmacy congratulates Becker on this well-deserved promotion and looks forward to his continued leadership and contributions to the company’s success,” Lynne Fruth concluded.
