John Boos Appoints Foodservice Sales VP

John Boos & Co. has promoted Patrick Smith to the role of vice president of foodservice sales. He succeeds Ted Gravenhorst, who will serve as vice president, executive advisor through year-end before retiring.

Ted Gravenhorst

Gravenhorst has spent nearly 40 years with John Boos. Highlights from his time at the manufacturer include building and expanding its commercial foodservice division, supporting its national expansion, broadening its product offerings and shaping its national commercial sales team. He also served on the NAFEM board of directors for six years.

Gravenhorst’s great-great-grandfather purchased John Boos in 1892, and he serves as one of five generations of family members who have contributed to its growth.

“We are incredibly grateful to Ted Gravenhorst for his many years of dedicated leadership and contributions to John Boos. He leaves a profound legacy of strategic vision, explosive growth, and a strong organizational foundation,” says Damon Childers, president and CEO of John Boos, in the release.

Next Chapter

In his expanded role, Smith will lead the John Boos commercial foodservice vertical, including Boos Steel. He will oversee its foodservice sales organization—working directly with Director of Sales Jennie Coon, regional sales managers and the independent rep network—while also leading the customer success team.

Smith joined John Boos in 2024 as director of business development. He brings more than two decades of sales and commercial leadership experience, with 15 years dedicated to the foodservice equipment industry. Prior to John Boos, he served as national sales manager at Accurex.