#10 Jay Deutsch

BDA (asi/137616) – CEO

2024 Rank: #10

Industry Experience: 42 years

Previous Appearances on Counselor Power 50: 19

Jay Deutsch once again rounds out the top 10 of this year’s Counselor Power 50 list, driving Counselor Top 40 distributor BDA (asi/137616) to a series of global acquisitions that pushes the company forward after more than 40 years in business. Most recently, that includes the major acquisition of fast-growing distributor Harper + Scott (asi/220052). The goal, said Deutsch, was to expand BDA’s New York presence and expand its capabilities for custom programs for BDA’s wide range of clients, which includes a newly extended exclusive license agreement with Major League Baseball.

Both through acquisitions and organic sales increases, Deutsch has guided BDA to a year of strong growth despite uncertainty and confusion around tariffs. Deutsch says positioning the company as a “hands-on” strategic advisor and supporter for clients was key for navigating questions of sourcing and volatility. As Deutsch and his team look to the future, they’re focused on sustainability – particularly having recently signed the Climate Pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040 – and on maintaining that growth momentum. “We are continuously on the lookout for potential partners,” says Deutsch, “that will strengthen our market position and enhance the offerings provided to our customers.”