A. O. Smith Water Products’ Senior Vice President of Sales Jim Margoni was recently awarded the 2018 Golden Eagle Award from the Association of Independent Manufacturers’ Representatives (AIM/R).

“I am extremely honored, thankful and humbled to receive this prestigious industry honor from an organization as impressive as AIM/R,” said Margoni. “This award gives me great pride and trust that A. O. Smith is well-aligned with our rep partners and giving them the support and tools they need to grow our business. Our successes are made possible because we stand on the shoulders of all those who support our efforts every day. I’m fortunate to be part of a strong and great company, have talented inside and outside sales teams, and work alongside such a professional sales network of independent rep organizations. These rep agencies are central to our success and add value to our brands every day in the markets they serve.”

All rep members of AIM/R are welcome throughout the year to nominate manufacturing executives for consideration, and the winner is then selected by vote in the months leading up to the AIM/R annual conference. The Golden Eagle was established to honor a senior-level executive for an industry manufacturer who has a proven track record supporting manufacturers’ reps and recognizing that they are the most efficient and cost-effective method of going to market.

“Jim and his team have always been very supportive of their reps,” said Charlie Parham of Pepco Sales and a member of the AIM/R Executive Committee. “Working with Jim, it's apparent that they trust their reps and the rep model.  I'm so proud to have been a part of the AIM/R membership that rewarded Jim for the opportunities he's provided to the A.O. Smith, State and American network of reps. Congratulations Jim!”