Tag: Bob Bender Legacy Award

Given annually, the award honors a manufacturer representative who goes above and beyond for customers, builds meaningful partnerships and carries forward the relationship-driven legacy of the late Bob Bender, an esteemed Oatey sales leader for over 40 years.

CLEVELAND, MAY 07, 2026 — Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, proudly announces that Michael McLeod, Principal at Harry Warren of Georgia Manufacturer Representative Agency, has been named the fifth annual recipient of the Bob Bender Legacy Award.

The award recognizes an exceptional manufacturer’s representative who exemplifies the high standard of customer service and excellence established by the late Bob Bender, an esteemed Oatey sales leader for over four decades.

CLEVELAND, OHIO, SEPTEMBER 9, 2025 – Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, proudly announces that Sheryl Sabin, Partner at Northeast Sales Associates, has been named the fourth annual recipient of the Bob Bender Legacy Award.

The award is given to a manufacturer’s representative who exemplifies the legacy and winning spirit of the late Bob Bender, a trailblazing member of the Oatey sales organization for more than 40 years.

CLEVELAND, OHIO, MAY 07, 2024 – Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, proudly announces Rick Portt, owner of New Century Sales, as the third annual winner of the Bob Bender Legacy Award. This recognition highlights Portt’s exceptional dedication to his customers, unwavering commitment to the Oatey brand, and outstanding contributions to the plumbing industry.

The award is given to a manufacturers representative who exemplifies the legacy and winning spirit of Bob Bender, a trailblazing member of the Oatey sales organization for more than 40 years  

CLEVELAND, JUNE 6, 2023 — Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, today announced that Skipper Joyce, founder of manufacturers representative group The Joyce Agency, was selected as the second annual winner of the Bob Bender Legacy Award. The award celebrates the legacy of the late Bob Bender, a 42-year veteran sales leader at Oatey who forged indelible relationships with customers and industry partners throughout his tenure.

CLEVELAND, MAY 17, 2022 — Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, recently named J&K Sales the top-performing manufacturer representative for its Wholesale Business Unit in 2021, recognizing the agency’s exceptional partnership and accomplishments in support of Oatey Co. and its companies. In addition, Oatey named Chase Freeman, Vice President, Spirit Group, the inaugural winner of its Bob Bender Legacy Award.