Mr. Ross is President and CEO of North Pacific, a leading wholesale distributor of building materials, wood products, as well as agricultural and food commodities. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, North Pacific had 2004 revenues reaching $1.5 billion and employs more than 850 people in the United States. Born in 1958, Jay grew up in Portland, Oregon and attended Benson High School. He graduated from the University of Portland with a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering. Starting his career before college, Mr. Ross spent over 20 years with Zellerbach Paper Company, gaining experience in management and operations. His positions included Fleet Manager, Vice President of Logistics, Northwest and Vice President of Operations, West Coast. In 1995 he joined Unisource Worldwide, Inc. holding positions as Regional Vice President, Operations in Chicago and Vice President, U.S. Logistics and Distribution in Philadelphia. When Unisource was acquired in 1999, Mr. Ross returned to Portland to join North Pacific as Chief Operating Officer, Distribution (COO). In 2001, Mr. Ross accepted the appointment of President of North Pacific Group, Inc. and in August 2003, he became Chief Executive Officer. Committed to community involvement, Mr. Ross is on board of directors for the Oregon Special Olympics as well as the Oregon Business Council. He lives in Lake Oswego, Oregon with his wife and daughter.