Building a Distribution Powerhouse
Born and raised in South Jersey, Bill’s entrepreneurial journey spans nearly 50 years. In 1977, he launched his career at a local flea market, co-founding a neighborhood hardware store with a focus on attracting commercial clients. This vision led to the creation of Wilmar Industries, a specialty supplier for apartment building owners in South Jersey, and ultimately into a dynamic force in the distribution industry. By 1996, Wilmar’s growth culminated in a celebrated IPO, with Fortune naming it one of the best of the year. Forbes later recognized it among America’s 200 Best Small Companies. Wilmar, rebranded as Interline Brands in 2001 and went on to acquire over 15 companies, reaching $630 million in revenue before becoming a part of The Home Depot.
Strategic Investments and Real Estate
In 2003, Bill founded Crestar Partners, a boutique investment firm focused on creating value through management-led buyouts, strategic equity investments, and growth capital financings. Over the years, he has overseen 20 investments across diverse industries, guiding and supporting management teams with his extensive experience. In 2008, Bill founded Crestar Capital, specializing in tax lien acquisitions, amassing over 45,000 liens valued at $2 billion. This success laid the foundation for Crestar Homes in 2012, which has managed over 430 properties through acquisitions, renovations, and leasing. To further Crestar’s real estate influence, he launched LendingOne in 2014, which quickly became a leading private real estate lender in the U.S. Bill served as CEO until 2021, when he sold the company to a global asset manager. In 2020, he established OneKeyHomes, focused on acquiring, leasing, and developing residential properties.
Philanthropy and Board Leadership
Beyond his own ventures, Bill has contributed his expertise to 15 private corporate boards and numerous nonprofits. He recently completed a 9-year tenure on The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Board and currently serves as Chairman of the Saddlehill Foundation, dedicated to children’s needs-based charities. Bill is also a former member of Young Presidents’ Organization and World Presidents Organization. Throughout his career, Bill’s strategic vision and dedication to value creation have solidified his legacy as an impactful leader in business and philanthropic efforts.
