Irrigation Direct Management

 

Bill Hayes

Founder and President

Bill founded Irrigation Direct in 2006 to create a better way of doing business. He grew up in the irrigation industry and is a well respected business leader, teacher, and mentor. As President, Bill is responsible for setting the overall strategy and vision for Irrigation Direct.  He focuses on growing the business and innovating, while continually working to better serve our customers.

Prior to starting Irrigation Direct, Bill was president of Automatic Rain and later merged with Mesa Sprinkler to form Horizon. He also served as Horizon’s Chairman of the Board. Horizon was successfully sold to SCP Pool Corporation in 2005.

Bill founded ARCO parts (later R Co parts), the largest controller repair and sprinkler building facility in the country, supplying over 500 after market replacement parts to the industry. He also created ARCO University, conducting extensive service seminars to over 7000 industry professionals. 

Chris Smith

Director, Web Marketing and Customer Service

Chris joined Irrigation Direct in March 2009 and is responsible for web marketing and customer service. He also runs the website, is responsible for all content, and manages new web initiatives. As a former owner of a successful landscape design and construction company, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team.

Chris focuses on creating exceptional experiences for our customers on and off the web. Prior to Irrigation Direct, Chris held senior product management positions at Café Press, E-LOAN, and CarClub.com.