Paulding Putnam announced today that Chief Executive Officer Randy Price will retire effective January 2027, following three years of distinguished service to the cooperative and its nearly 14,000 members across seven counties in northwest Ohio and northeast Indiana.
Price has led the cooperative through a period of significant growth and transformation. Under his leadership, Paulding Putnam successfully launched fiber internet service — approved by the board in 2024 and first installed for subscribers in fall 2025 — that has since expanded to nearly 650 miles of mainline fiber. The co-op also maintains more than 1,700 miles of electric lines serving both electric members and fiber internet subscribers across its service territory.
"This decision comes after careful consideration and with great appreciation for the opportunity to serve the Paulding Putnam members,” Price says. “Leading Paulding Putnam has been one of the most rewarding professional experiences of my career. I am proud of what we have accomplished together by building an organization that is financially strong, competitive, reliable, and technically ready for the changes in society and the electric and internet industries.”
Price added that he is confident in the company’s long-term direction and leadership.
"To ensure a smooth and orderly transition, I am fully committed to supporting the board and executive team during the succession process,” Price said. “I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the board for its guidance, trust, and partnership throughout my tenure. I am also deeply thankful to the management team and employees whose dedication and professionalism have been central to our success.”
Board Chairman Adam Schnipke praised Price's contributions, stating he “has been an absolute pleasure to work with.”
"Randy is such a good, caring, genuine human being, always doing what is right for our members and never afraid to face challenges that arise,” Schnipke said. “He has done a remarkable job of helping Paulding Putnam get to 'the next level' and setting us up for success in the future.”
Schnipke also cited Price’s ability to “surround himself with a talented team, which will prove key with the transition to new leadership.”
Regarding the search process, Schnipke noted that the board is working with a third party on the recruiting process, working efficiently for a smooth transition.
“We want to make sure the recruitment process is properly executed and the next CEO is the best selection we can make for our members of today and the future,” Schnipke said.
Randy Price became just the sixth CEO in the cooperative's 91-year history — a legacy of stable, mission-driven leadership that the board is committed to honoring through this transition.
Additional details about the search process and transition timeline will be shared as they become available. Those with questions can call the cooperative at 800-686-2357.