People in the News

Former Maryland government official brings industry expertise to Danfoss 

Danfoss is pleased to announce that Steven Lakin has joined the company as its new director of public and industry affairs. Lakin, who began his new role on May 16, is an accomplished government relations and public affairs professional with extensive experience working across multiple industries, with industry associations, and with policymakers at the state and federal level.

Steven Lakin is Danfoss’ new director of public and industry affairs.

Most recently, Steven was the deputy commissioner of labor and industry for the State of Maryland (2016-2022). Previously, he served in leadership roles for several contracting associations and worked for two members of Congress, two governors and one U.S. president.

“I am excited to join Danfoss and bring my experience in both the public and private sector,” said Lakin. “Danfoss is an industry leader in energy efficiency and sustainable technologies and I look forward to working with key industry and government stakeholders at this critical junction where innovations in climate and sustainable solutions are gaining momentum in our national conversation.”

Steven has a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in communications from the University of Florida.

NIBCO INC. has announced the promotion of Dawn Bloch to vice president, customer engagement.

In her new role, Bloch will oversee the marketing communications department in addition to continuing to manage business development and customer service. She will report to Ashley Martin, executive vice president, NIBCO.

Bloch joined NIBCO in 2000 as a customer service representative. She held several positions of increasing responsibility including technical specialist, radiant heating advisor; radiant heat technical coordinator; customer service supervisor; customer service manager, director retail sales; manager, HR services; and director, business development and customer service.

Bloch was named to Supply House Times, “20 Women in Industry” in March 2017, an acknowledgement of women decision makers in the PHCP-PVC industry. At NIBCO, she was recognized in 2015 with the Rex Martin award, given to recognize achievement in cost reduction, safety, or an increase in sales, and in 2018, the Alice A. Martin award, given to recognize women who demonstrate philanthropy, community service, mentorship, and support the development of other women.

She has been a member of the American Supply Association Women in Industry since 2013, a board chair for Habitat for Humanity of Elkhart since 2019, and she volunteers for the United Way of Elkhart.

She holds a bachelor’s degree of Science in Business Administration from Indiana Tech, Fort Wayne, Indiana. Bloch also holds a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Northern Alabama and a certificate in Digital Marketing from Cornell University.

She resides in Elkhart, Indiana.

The board of directors of Franklin Electric Co., Inc. (NASDAQ: FELE) has elected Chris Villavarayan to be a director of the Company effective May 6, 2022.

Mr. Villavarayan has been the Chief Executive Officer and President of Meritor, Inc. (NYSE: MTOR) since March 2021. Prior to his appointment as CEO, Mr. Villavarayan held a number of positions of increasing responsibility within Meritor, most recently serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer with oversight of the company’s global operations for its Global Truck and Aftermarket & Industrial business segments.

Mr. Villavarayan earned a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario.

Mr. Gregg Sengstack, Franklin’s Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “I have confidence that Chris’ extensive operational and manufacturing experience and his global outlook will provide a unique perspective to our deliberations. I join my fellow directors in welcoming Chris to the Board and we look forward to benefitting from his leadership and expertise.”

Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, recently named J&K Sales the top-performing manufacturer representative for its Wholesale Business Unit in 2021, recognizing the agency’s exceptional partnership and accomplishments in support of Oatey Co. and its companies. In addition, Oatey named Chase Freeman, Vice President, Spirit Group, the inaugural winner of its Bob Bender Legacy Award.

J&K Sales, whose partnership with Oatey spans nearly 20 years, earned the title of Wholesale Manufacturer Representative of the Year because of their exceptional work, perseverance and passion throughout 2021. They delivered exceptional sales results for the year, across budget targets, new-product sales and more. In addition, through consistent investments in their business – such as training, associate development and team growth – J&K has positioned themselves for ongoing success.

“Oatey’s manufacturer representatives are an extension of our team, and we are extremely grateful for their hard work and dedication,” said Patrick Aquino, Vice President, Wholesale Sales at Oatey Co. “J&K Sales has built a phenomenal team in the New England states. They are strong in all segments, and I see them only getting stronger. Congratulations to them on this well-deserved honor.”

Oatey also recognized Chase Freeman of Spirit Group as the inaugural winner of the Bob Bender Legacy Award. Prior to his death in 2018, Bender spent his 42-year career in sales at Oatey, during which time he forged indelible relationships with customers and industry partners. His legacy and contributions will continue to serve as an example and inspiration to Oatey team members and partners for years to come.

Freeman was selected for the Bob Bender Legacy Award because of his passion, creative energy and willingness to go above and beyond for Oatey in both the rough-plumbing and waterworks markets. His ability to think outside the box enables him to drive impressive sales results, and he consistently demonstrates perseverance in support of Oatey and its brand.

“Congratulations to Chase on being the well-deserved winner of the Bob Bender Legacy Award,” said Aquino. “His dedication, no-quit attitude and enthusiasm for this industry are a true reflection of Bob’s legacy, and I know Bob would be proud to see Chase receive this recognition. We are so appreciative of his contributions.”