Rinnai America Corporation, has announced that Leland A. Nichols has joined the company as Rinnai’s senior vice president of sales. In his new role, Nichols will report directly to Rinnai America Chief Operating Officer Phil Weeks, and will be responsible for the management of Rinnai’s North American sales organization.

Nichols will work closely with other members of the company’s executive leadership team to develop and execute organizational strategy and revenue generation for Rinnai America.

“We’re thrilled to add Leland’s extensive sales knowledge and customer insights in both the consumer and commercial arenas to our team,” Weeks says. “His previous success with major consumer brands and keen understanding of customers’ needs will help Rinnai extend the reach of our sales organization and build upon the high level of service we already provide to our customers.”

Nichols brings more than 25 years of experience in sales, marketing, product management and general management, both in the U.S. and Asia, to Rinnai. From 2009 to 2011, Nichols served as senior vice president of sales, marketing and business development for Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation, a U.S.-based, global provider of products and services for safety, security, protection and sport.

From 2006 to 2008, he held the position of president and chief operating officer for the company’s subsidiary, Smith & Wesson Corp., the globally recognized manufacturer of quality firearms. Prior to his executive experience with Smith & Wesson Corp., Nichols led Kohler’s efforts to commercially reposition and grow its cabinetry division as executive vice president, cabinetry. He also held management positions at The Stanley Works, a worldwide supplier of quality tools and engineered solutions for industrial, construction, and do-it-yourself use. While president of the hardware division at The Stanley Works, he was instrumental in the successful turnaround of that business unit.

Early in his career, Nichols spent 14 years with Black & Decker Corporation, where he served in several senior management positions and was involved in the successful launch of the DeWalt brand of professional power tools in the U.S. and Asia.

“I'm very excited to join Rinnai,” Nichols says. “Rinnai has achieved success due to its constant pursuit of new, innovative product offerings and dedication to customer satisfaction. Rinnai’s position as the industry leader for tankless water heating has provided the company with a significant opportunity to grow sales and revenue as tankless technology continues to gain traction in the marketplace, and I look forward to playing a part in the company’s future accomplishments.”

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