Exotic Automation & Supply, a premier Parker Hannifin distributor, is proud to announce that effective July 1, 2023 three new members have joined their Board of Directors. These three individuals will bring tremendous distribution, manufacturing and financial experience and leadership to advise the company as they continue to diversify into new markets and product lines. The board members will also play a key role in advising how to continue to perfect and grow Exotic’s existing distribution and manufacturing business.

Exotic Automation & Supply welcomes the following members to the Board of Directors:

J. Michael Marks:
Mike Marks rejoins Exotic’s board after having previously served from 2000 to 2010. Mike spent two decades working in distribution management before co-founding Indian River Consulting Group where he specializes in distribution strategy, supply chain management, and outside sales strategy. Mike has also authored numerous books surrounding business and strategy, in addition to serving as a Faculty Member for Purdue University’s University of Innovative Distribution and as a Research Fellow for the National Association of Wholesaler-Distributors. With over 30 years of experience serving on other boards and advising expertise, Exotic is excited to welcome Mike back!

Ted Bojanowski:
Ted joins the board with over 40 years of industry experience in manufacturing, sales & marketing, and several Executive roles. A graduate of The Ohio State University, Ted’s previous experience includes roles as Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Garlock Sealing Technologies, President of Hagglunds Drives, and most recently Vice President of Global Mobile Sales, Marketing, and System Engineering at Parker Hannifin Corporation. Ted’s industry experience and leadership in OEM and defense markets makes him a great addition to Exotic.

Russell Smaston:
Russ also returns to Exotic as a board member after retiring from his position as Exotic’s CFO in early 2022. A graduate of Michigan State University, Russ spent seven years as a Manager for Arthur Andersen & Co., before leaving to join Exotic for the next 32 years. Russ’ financial, operational, and human resource experience and history with Exotic will complement the external experience and guidance from Mike and Ted.

“I’m thrilled to have these three come together to support Exotic and help us continue our mission to be Parker’s Distributor of choice and provide our customers best in class service” Tom Marino, President & CEO of Exotic said.

Exotic Automation & Supply was founded in 1963 and has grown to become one of Parker Hannifin’s largest distributors in the United States. Exotic’s headquarters is in New Hudson, Michigan and the company maintains full-service centers throughout Michigan & Indiana with locations in Ann Arbor, Freeland (Saginaw), Lansing, Taylor, Flint, Grand Rapids NW, Grand Rapids SE, Indianapolis, Jackson, Livonia, Noblesville, Port Huron, Rochester Hills, Shelby Township, St. Joseph, and Traverse City.