A. O. Smith Corporation, a leader in water heating and water treatment, has announced the promotions of two team members who have played key roles in delivering sales growth for A. O. Smith and elevating its brand offerings with wholesale customers. John Bates is assuming the position of regional vice president of the central U.S. region, and Matt Patterson will become director of national accounts.

“We are fortunate to have very talented individuals on our sales team who have proven themselves with customers inside and outside the organization,” said Chuck Dean, vice president of wholesale sales. “We make it a priority to promote from within whenever possible, and I am confident these two individuals will continue to drive innovation and sales to further expand A. O. Smith’s market share.”

Bates joined the organization in April of 2004 and most recently served as regional sales manager of the southeast U.S. region. In his new role, he will oversee the north central, south central and southeast regions. Bates is a graduate of Wake Forest University with a bachelor’s degree in communication theory and psychology.

Patterson joined the company in January of 2012 and most recently served as regional sales manager for the northwest U.S. He will be responsible for leading the national accounts team to grow market share with the company’s largest wholesale customers. Patterson holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing and management from Lipscomb University and is an active member of the American Supply Association Plumbing Advisory Council.