AB&I Foundry, a leading manufacturer of cast iron soil pipe and fittings, has announced that Eric Ruiz will be joining the AB&I sales team as a regional sales manager covering the Southern California, Southern Nevada and Arizona territories.

Ruiz will be responsible for reaching out to existing customers and developing new partners within the territory. His appointment supports the company’s strategic direction, strengthening customer relationships as well as expanding its sales support coverage.

“I look forward to leveraging my previous career knowledge and relationship building and applying them to the plumbing industry,” Ruiz said.

Ruiz grew up in Southern California and attended the University of San Diego on a football scholarship. After his playing career ended, he pursued a career in teaching mathematics and earned his master's degree in educational administration, which led to managing operations and procurement for a large charter school network. During his time in education, Ruiz met his wife, Vanessa. They have been married for two years and are expecting their second son in June.

“I’m looking forward to having Eric on AB&I’s sales team. He will be able to use his experience and education in building relationships while promoting AB&I’s brand and long-standing reputation in this dynamic SoCal and Southern states territory,” said Michael Lopez, general sales manager at AB&I Foundry.