The Avnet Electronics Marketing operating group of Avnet, Inc. (NYSE:AVT) announces the appointment of Ed Smith as president of Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas, effective immediately.

In his new role, Smith will be responsible for the Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas business region and will report directly to Harley Feldberg, president of Avnet Electronics Marketing globally. “Ed brings a high level of energy, passion and industry experience to this position – which is a powerful combination,” Feldberg said. “His diverse background and proven success in the Americas market will serve us, and our partners, well going forward.”

Smith has been senior vice president of sales for Avnet Electronics Marketing Americas since 2004. Before that, he served as president and chief executive officer of SMTEK, International, an electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider. He also served on the board of directors at SMTEK. Prior to SMTEK, Smith spent eight years at Avnet, where he held various sales and operational positions, including district manager for the Los Angeles and Phoenix marketplaces and director of sales for Avnet's Industrial Marketing Group. Smith’s career began with W.W. Grainger. In 2008, he was recognized by the National Electronic Distributors Association (NEDA) with its Distinguished Service Award. He was a recipient of the Avnet, Inc. Chairman's Award in 2007.

During his tenure in California, he served as a board member of the American Red Cross of Ventura County; in addition he currently runs the We Will Never Forget Foundation. He resides in Phoenix.

Smith succeeds Philip Gallagher, a 26-year Avnet veteran who held the role since July 2004. Gallagher has been promoted to Avnet Technology Solutions global president, effective March 2.