From Energy Policy to Talent:
Industry Insights with NAED’s Wes Smith 

Available on-demand

Watch on-demand as hosts Ian Heller and Jonathan Bein sit down with Wes Smith, the president and CEO of the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED). 

Wes started his current position in January 2024, but he’s no stranger to the electrical industry or the association. He spent more than 34 years with Mayer Electric, including 14+ years as president before they were acquired by Rexel. At Rexel, he served as Chief Strategy and Growth Officer. 

After three decades in the industry, he was named NAED’s chairman from 2020-2022 and remained on the executive committee until he was appointed to lead the association. 

We talked with Wes about: 

• NAED’s mission in the electrical industry 

• What’s driving the electrical distribution industry, including challenges and opportunities 

• How NAED collaborates with other groups in the channel 

• How NAED is tackling key issues, including energy policy, workforce development, supply chain transparency, data standards and more 

• The future role of organizations like NAED in the distribution industry 

Watch now on-demand.  

Our Guest

Wes Smith, NAED

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About our guest:

Wes Smith

President & CEO, National Association of Electrical Distributors

The National Association of Electrical Distributors named Wes Smith President and CEO in January 2024. Smith previously worked as the Senior Advisor for Rexel USA and as President and CEO of Mayer before Mayer became part of Rexel.

Smith has grown up in the industry and developed a unique perspective on how to build on Mayer’s rich history to ensure a bright future. His career at Mayer began in 1987 as a warehouse associate and progressed forward with roles in internal auditing and quality assurance. In 2000, Wes became Mayer’s first CIO. He then accepted the role of Executive Vice President & COO in 2005, and advanced to President in 2008.

Smith has extensive experience with the National Association of Electrical Distributors. He was NAED’s Chairman from 2020-2022, helping to navigate the association during the COVID pandemic. He remained on the NAED Executive Committee as Past Chair until he was appointed President and CEO. Smith has been involved with IDEA over the past 20 years, including past IDEA Chair. 

In November 2023, the National Electrical Manufacturers Association awarded Smith its highest honor, the Bernard H. Falk Award. This award recognizes outstanding achievement in technology, management, marketing, international trade, education, public affairs or any other field important to the electro industry. Smith is the first-ever electrical distributor to receive the award.

About our hosts:

Ian G. Heller

Founder & Senior Partner, Distribution Strategy Group

Jonathan Bein, Ph.D.

Managing Partner, Distribution Strategy Group