Robert D. Smith joins the METUS team to help actualize 2021 supply chain goals

SUWANEE, Ga. – May 4, 2021 – Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS), a leading supplier of Ductless and Ducted Mini-split and Variable Refrigerant Flow (VRF) heat-pump and air-conditioning systems, is pleased to announce the hiring of Robert D. Smith as vice president of supply chain management.

A long-time employee of Ingersoll Rand and Trane Technologies, Smith joins METUS with over 27 years of experience in product engineering, plant management, distribution, logistics and supply chain. Smith most recently served as a global director of procurement at Trane Technologies where he used his skills to drive supply chain efficiencies. During his time at Trane Technologies, Smith participated in the organization’s premier executive leadership development programs, and his teams won prestigious achievement awards.

As the vice president of supply chain management at METUS, Smith will spearhead the continued development and implementation of best practices across the supply chain organization. He will work alongside business units, factories and vendors to manage forecasting and inventory procurement processes, as well as drive reliability and efficiency improvements within METUS operations. Smith will also work closely with METUS distributors to help maintain appropriate inventory levels in the field.

“Robert has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in supply chain management to contribute to the Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US team,” said Steve O’Brien, senior vice president, sales, marketing and supply chain, METUS. “We’re pleased to be working with him and excited to see how he’ll continue to improve our supply chain strategy and structure to support the company’s goals and objectives.” 

Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Business Administration from Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. He will be based out of the Suwanee, Georgia METUS headquarters.