Experienced global executive to lead
operations
MILWAUKEE, March 18,
2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global water technology
company A. O. Smith Corporation ("the Company") (NYSE:
AOS) announced today the appointment of Stephen Shafer as president and chief operating
officer, effective March 18,
2024.
In this role, Shafer will lead the company's global business
units, including operations, engineering and IT. "Steve will work
with me and our team to drive enhanced performance and continued
growth in sales and profitability," said Kevin Wheeler, chairman and CEO.
Shafer is an accomplished business leader with deep global
experience in manufacturing and leading highly innovative
businesses. He joined 3M Company in
2010 and has held several positions with increasing levels of
responsibility in multiple 3M
business units in both the U.S. and China. Most recently, he served as president
of the Automotive and Aerospace Solutions Division for 3M Company. Prior to 3M, Steve worked for McKinsey & Company and
Ford Motor Company holding various roles focusing on manufacturing,
supply chain and operational improvement.
"We are excited to welcome Steve to A. O. Smith, where his
strategic business acumen and extensive experience in global
operations will prove invaluable as we continue to create value for
our customers, employees and shareholders," said Wheeler.
"Joining A. O. Smith is a great opportunity and I am looking
forward to contributing to the continued growth and success of this
iconic company. Working closely with the senior leaders in the
organization to continue to improve operating performance, while
maintaining a strong focus on innovation, safety and quality will
be priorities for me," said Shafer.
Shafer earned his MBA from Harvard Business
School and his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial
Engineering from Northwestern
University. He resides in Minneapolis, MN and will be relocating to the
Milwaukee area.
About A. O. Smith
Celebrating its 150th
year of business, A. O. Smith Corporation, headquartered in
Milwaukee, Wis., is a global
leader applying innovative technology and energy-efficient
solutions to products manufactured and marketed worldwide. Listed
on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: AOS), the Company is one of
the world's leading manufacturers of residential and commercial
water heating equipment and boilers, as well as a manufacturer of
water treatment products. For more information, visit
www.aosmith.com.
View original content to download
multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/a-o-smith-appoints-stephen-shafer-president-and-chief-operating-officer-302090863.html
SOURCE A. O. Smith Corporation