Todd Director is president of Connecticut Lighting Centers, a third-generation lighting, decorative hardware and home solutions company serving residential, commercial, trade and e-commerce customers throughout the East Coast. He oversees the company’s strategic growth, operations and executive leadership.
Director also serves on the advisory board of Lighting One, the nation’s leading lighting cooperative, and as membership officer for the Connecticut River Valley Chapter of YPO, where he helps identify and recruit the next generation of business leaders in the region.
What’s been your biggest professional accomplishment so far in your career?
My biggest professional accomplishment has been leading the evolution of Connecticut Lighting Centers from a traditional retail lighting business into a diversified retail, specification, distribution and e-commerce organization. By expanding markets, modernizing operations and rebuilding our leadership team, I’ve positioned the company for sustainable growth while preserving our 50-year legacy.
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How are you involved in the community?
I serve on the board of the Cromwell Hillside Cemetery, helping preserve an important community landmark for future generations. I also support local charitable initiatives through fundraising and sponsorship development for the annual Interfaith Golf Tournament, which raises over $100,000 annually for nonprofit organizations throughout Middlesex County.
What do you like to do outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m an avid golfer who enjoys the challenges the game creates. Most of my time, however, is spent with my wife and our three boys. Whether it’s nightly dinner, youth sports or simply being together, my family is my greatest source of fulfillment.
Why do you deserve to be a 40 Under Forty?
Took over as president of Connecticut Lighting Centers at age 34 and successfully led a workforce transformation, recruiting new talent and developing future leaders to support long-term growth
Guided expansion into new markets and product categories while preserving the values of a multigenerational business.
One of my greatest strengths is building relationships and connecting people. Whether it’s business, solving a problem or making an introduction, I ‘have a guy for everything.’
Fun Fact
Acted in two episodes of the CBS series ‘Rescue 911’ in the early 90s.
