Manufacturers, People

Phoenix Manufacturing Hires Director of Sales Rick Krentz to Support Increased Demand for Expanding Evaporative Cooling Portfolio

March 05, 2026
Rick Krentz

Veteran construction products and distribution sales executive to lead geographic growth, industry partnerships and new application development as market evolves

Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc., a leading designer and manufacturer of evaporative cooling solutions, announced today that Rick Krentz has joined the company as director of sales. Krentz will lead sales strategy and execution as Phoenix Manufacturing builds on strong market momentum amid recent product launches, including the Frigiking Rigid Media mid-tier residential system and the Agricool agricultural and commercial cooler.

In this role, Krentz will focus on expanding the company’s geographic footprint, accelerating growth into new cooling applications and strengthening relationships with engineering and contractor communities to support pull-through demand. He will also pursue opportunities with warehouse and logistics end users, including large-scale operators and major 3PL networks.

“Rick brings a proven track record of effectively scaling sales organizations, developing high-performing teams and maximizing reach across complex channels,” said Scott Morling,
president of Phoenix Manufacturing. “His success in amplifying brand and market presence through valuable relationships with established organizations makes him an ideal fit, especially as our offerings quickly advance to fill industry gaps.”

Krentz brings extensive experience across construction, wholesale distribution, MRO and related verticals — aligning long- and short-term strategies with margin goals while adapting quickly to market shifts. His background includes sales leadership roles spanning startup environments, regional and national account management and team development.

Most recently, Rick served as regional sales director for a multi-family technology company, and he previously led West-region sales teams for a national building materials enterprise. Earlier in his career, he held senior roles supporting commercial renovation and restoration organizations, and he held progressive leadership positions with The Home Depot and HD Supply.

“It’s exciting to join Phoenix Manufacturing during such a pivotal period of growth,” said Krentz. “The company has a strong portfolio, and I’m looking forward to deepening partner relationships, tapping into new regions and driving sustained demand within today’s commercial, agricultural and residential environments.”

Learn more about Phoenix Manufacturing.

About Phoenix Manufacturing
Phoenix Manufacturing, Inc. (PMI) designs and manufactures innovative evaporative cooling solutions that set the standard for cooling efficiency, durability and long-term value. Since 1975, PMI has supported contractors and engineers with easy-to-install systems designed to perform in the most demanding climates — delivering comfort and cost savings to commercial, residential and agricultural projects. More at PhoenixManufacturing.com.

About Riverbend Industries
Riverbend Industries is a family-owned business that acquires and operates North American manufacturing companies in the building and industrial products sectors. A collaborative partner, Riverbend looks to facilitate growth while supporting its businesses’ unique cultures. Long-held investments and customized transaction structures ensure alignment with all stakeholders. Through operational standardization and centralization of specific strategic functions, Riverbend enables portfolio companies to capture efficiencies while fostering an environment of entrepreneurship.

Contact
Niamh Sutton
Aker Ink
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(602) 363-5887