ANN ARBOR, Mich., Dec. 6, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Affinia Group Inc., an innovative global leader in the design, manufacture, distribution and marketing of industrial grade products and services, has named two directors to its board – William M. Lasky, President, CEO and Chairman of Accuride Corporation, and James S. McElya, Chairman and CEO of Cooper-Standard Automotive. These appointments will be effective January 1, 2011.
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"Bill Lasky and Jim McElya bring an incredible wealth of experience to our board and will greatly strengthen our ability to deliver on the Affinia World Smart™ mission of providing the highest possible quality at globally competitive costs," said Terry R. McCormack, CEO and President of Affinia Group.
"Bill has achieved an unparalleled track record of visionary leadership within global industrial and heavy duty manufacturing segments," McCormack continued. "He has a proven ability to recruit and motivate talented teams capable of leveraging complex manufacturing assets and supply chain resources.
"Jim's career has focused intensely on quality management within global operations, including in-depth experience with Six Sigma Principles and lean manufacturing. He also has a real passion for elevating quality and professionalism within the aftermarket and for community service that addresses the fundamental needs of people," McCormack said. "We are fortunate to have attracted such seasoned executives to what is already a very strong Affinia Board of Directors."
Lasky joined the Accuride Board of Directors in 2007, was named President and CEO in 2008 and Chairman in 2009. In addition, he has served as a director of Stoneridge, Inc. since 2004, and was named Chairman in 2006.
During his career, Lasky served as Chairman, President and CEO of JLG Industries from 1999 – 2006, and prior to JLG held various management positions with Dana Corporation from 1977 – 1999. His career with Dana included service as President of WIX Filtration Products, which was acquired by Affinia in 2004. He is a graduate of Norwich University.
Prior to his current position, McElya served as a Corporate Vice President of Cooper Tire & Rubber Company, which was the parent company of Cooper Standard until 2004. During his career, McElya has also served as President of Siebe Automotive Worldwide and over a 22-year period held various management positions with Handy & Harman, including President of Handy & Harman Automotive, Corporate Vice President and Officer of the parent company.
McElya is a past chairman of the Motor Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and Original Equipment Supplier Association (OESA). A strong supporter of community and education, McElya was instrumental in the development of the Cooper-Standard "Inspirations" program, an educational workshop for middle school students based on Six Sigma Principles. He is also active in programs for Detroit's homeless and was instrumental in the opening of the city's first medical clinic for homeless children. He attended West Chester University.
Affinia Group Inc. is an innovative global leader in the design, manufacture, distribution and marketing of industrial grade products and services, including extensive offerings of aftermarket parts for automotive and heavy-duty vehicles. With approximately $1.8 billion in annual revenue, Affinia has operations in North and South America, Europe, China and India. For more information, visit www.affiniagroup.com.
SOURCE Affinia Group Inc.
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