Solid surface fabricator L.E. Smith named a new COO
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BRYAN, Ohio - The L.E. Smith Company says Mari Ivan was promoted to Chief Operating Officer, and Kevin Bock joined the fabrication firm as Director of HR and Fabrication.  Mari joined the L.E. Smith team in July of 2014 as the Director of Technology and Client Services.  In this position, Mari was successful in elevating the client service experience through standardized, sustainable, operating procedures, and technology solutions. Mari is also a seasoned pro in value-added revenue growth, continuous improvement, strategic planning, execution, and technology. Prior to L.E. Smith, Mari was the Senior Managing Director of NRP Financial, and Principal of Trivium Consultants. Mari's experience and background have created a strong foundation in preparing her for her new role as Chief Operating Officer with The L.E. Smith Company.
 
Effective April 25th, 2016, Kevin Bock joined the L.E. Smith Company as Director of HR and Fabrication.  Kevin brings with him over 35 years of successful business leadership experience.  This includes serving as the COO/CFO of Northern Steel Transport, the COO of Alex Product Corp, and The Vice President of Administration for ITW Tomco.  Kevin has a history of maximizing operational efficiencies, and improving financial results through systems development, resource development, and employee engagement.  Kevin's arrival and leadership will be pivotal in the midst of L.E. Smith's current success and growth.
 
The L.E. Smith Company is a third generation, family-owned, premium quality surface fabricator and distributor.  With over six decades of service to the construction, cabinetry, millwork and retail industries, L.E. Smith consistently brings clients trend-forward, high-quality products, and shares proven business techniques that enable clients to differentiate themselves from fierce competition.  Committed to lean manufacturing and forestry conservation, L.E. Smith integrates KAIZEN throughout its business practices and has worked to receive and maintain FSC certification.  More L.E. Smith information is available at www.lesmith.com.

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Bill Esler | ConfSenior Editor

Bill wrote for WoodworkingNetwork.com, FDMC and Closets & Organized Storage magazines. 

Bill's background includes more than 10 years in print manufacturing management, followed by more than 30 years in business reporting on industrial manufacturing in the forest products industries, including printing and packaging at American Printer (Features Editor) and Graphic Arts Monthly (Editor in Chief) magazines; and in secondary wood manufacturing for WoodworkingNetwork.com.

Bill was deeply involved with the launches of the Woodworking Network Leadership Forum, and the 40 Under 40 Awards programs. He currently reports on technology and business trends and develops conference programs.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Bill supports efforts to expand and improve educational opportunities in the manufacturing sectors, including 10 years on the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation; six years with the U.S. WoodLinks; and currently on the Woodwork Career Alliance Education Committee. He is also supports the Greater West Town Training Partnership Woodworking Program, which has trained more than 950 adults for industrial wood manufacturing careers. 

Bill volunteers for Foinse Research Station, a biological field station staddling the border of Ireland and Northern Ireland, one of more than 200 members of the Organization of Biological Field Stations.