Automated Packaging Systems has promoted Jay Patras to vice president of sales, North America. Patras will manage the day-to-day operations of the company’s North American sales channel and its full line of Autobag, SidePouch and AirPouch machines and materials. He will also serve as a member of the Executive Leadership Team.

Most recently, Patras held the position of national field sales director for Automated Packaging Systems. Prior to that, he was the northeast regional business director for the company, successfully managing both the sales and service operations for that region. His early career with Automated Packaging began in 2007 as an area sales manager, which then led to a promotion to district sales manager. He succeeds Brad Worman, who has retired after 40 years of dedicated service.

“Jay works very well with internal peers to drive customer-focused improvements. He is in the process of building a strong sales team for the future and has demonstrated solid decision-making ability. We are excited to have his passion and experience lead us on this path of growth," said Cliff Brehm, president of the company.