The American Foundry Society (AFS) has hired Ben Yates as its vice president of business development and sales. Yates comes to AFS from the Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) in Schaumburg, Illinois. Yates started his new position with AFS on Aug. 7.
“For the last 14 years, Ben has been with Associated Equipment Distributors, a trade association that serves and represents distributors of heavy construction, forestry, and mining equipment,” said Doug Kurkul, the CEO of AFS. “His responsibilities over the years have included membership development and retention, onboarding new regional managers, coordinating chapters, organizing their EHS and leadership conferences, hosting 20-plus members of the U.S. House and Senate at member companies each year, and contributing to their magazines and other sources of non-dues revenue. He has traveled extensively to develop personal relationships with AED members.” Yates has a master’s degree from Florida State University.
"Because AFS offers a wide variety of products and services, membership means different things to different people," Yates said. "Some value continuing education and best practices, while others seek innovative new products, effective advertising, or a strong advocate for their business. I'm looking forward to helping members find their value in AFS membership."
At AFS, Yates will be the key executive responsible for developing and implementing strategies for optimizing revenue in the areas of membership dues, magazine advertisements, content marketing and webinars, AFS/Institute services, and sponsorships and related opportunities. He will be assisting in the generation of trade show exhibit income. Reporting to him will be the Director of Membership, Business Development Specialist, and two Advertising Sales & Marketing Representatives.
The American Foundry Society is a not-for-profit organization formed in 1896. With its headquarters in Schaumburg, Illinois, AFS provides members and consumers with information and services to promote and strengthen the $30.3 billion metalcasting industry.