NOVI, Mich., June 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The board of directors of
Cooper-Standard Holdings Inc., the parent company of Cooper-Standard
Automotive Inc., today announced that the company is appointing Edward A.
Hasler as president and chief executive officer (CEO) effective July 1, 2008.
Hasler, currently president and chief operating officer (COO), will succeed
James S. McElya as CEO. McElya will continue as executive chairman of the
company.
Hasler has been president and COO, with responsibility for leading the
global activities of Cooper-Standard's operating divisions, since September
2006. His responsibilities as COO were expanded in 2007 to include oversight
of the company's human resources and information technology functions. Hasler
previously served for three years as president of Cooper-Standard's Global
Sealing Systems Division. He has more than 25 years of experience in
leadership positions in the automotive industry, both in the United States and
internationally.
"Further expanding Ed's leadership role at this time is a logical step in
the succession plan we initiated in 2006 to position Cooper-Standard for
continued success," McElya said. "Ed has been exceptionally successful in
strengthening the company's global leadership position year after year in a
challenging industry environment."
McElya has been CEO of Cooper-Standard since 2004. He was appointed
chairman of the company in 2006. Prior to his appointment as CEO, McElya
served for four years as president of Cooper-Standard, which was then part of
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. He has more than 33 years of experience in the
automotive industry.
As CEO, Hasler will lead the execution of Cooper-Standard's long-term
strategy, assuming responsibility for all corporate and executive functions,
while continuing to oversee the company's global operations. As executive
chairman, McElya will focus on the alignment of the company's investments and
initiatives with its long-term strategy, interfacing with the board of
directors and fostering relationships with the company's customers and
financial stakeholders.
"I am pleased and excited by the opportunity to lead the talented,
experienced and successful Cooper-Standard team as CEO," Hasler said. "I look
forward to continuing the strong working relationship that Jim and I have
established in our new roles and am confident that the company is well
positioned for the future."
About Cooper-Standard Automotive
Cooper-Standard Automotive Inc., headquartered in Novi, Mich., is a
leading global automotive supplier specializing in the manufacture and
marketing of systems and components for the automotive industry. Products
include body sealing systems, fluid handling systems, and NVH control systems.
Cooper-Standard Automotive Inc. employs approximately 19,000 people globally
with more than 70 facilities throughout the world. For more information, visit
the company's Web site at: www.cooperstandard.com .
SOURCE Cooper-Standard Automotive Inc.
