HAYZ Hayes Lemmerz International (MM)

NORTHVILLE, Mich., Jan. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. (NASDAQ:HAYZ) announced today the strategic realignment of its wheel businesses to strengthen coordination and synergies worldwide. The move combines the Company's North American and International Wheel Groups, creating a newly formed Global Wheel Group. The Company also announced the appointment of Fred Bentley to the new position of Chief Operating Officer and President of the Global Wheel Group, effective immediately. Mr. Bentley will continue to report directly to Curtis Clawson, President, CEO and Chairman of the Board. "Integrating the Company's Wheel Operations makes good business sense. It enables us to improve operational efficiencies and to more fully leverage product development capabilities and existing investments in technology and resources," said Mr. Clawson. Commenting on the appointment of Mr. Bentley, Mr. Clawson said, "Fred is the right individual to take on the challenges of Chief Operating Officer and President of the Group. He is well-prepared and he has been instrumental in the growth of the Company's international operations. I know Fred will bring the same vigor in taking on the challenges and opportunities we face in the global marketplace." Mr. Bentley formerly served as President of the Company's International Wheel Group and also as President of its Commercial Highway and Aftermarket Group. Mr. Bentley has a solid background in management, operations, and lean manufacturing. Prior to joining Hayes Lemmerz, Mr. Bentley was Managing Director for Honeywell's Consumer Products Group European and South Africa automotive aftermarket operations. Before that, Mr. Bentley was General Manager Heavy Duty operations for AlliedSignal. Earlier in his career, Mr. Bentley held several different positions in operations at Frito-Lay. Throughout Mr. Bentley's career, he has a demonstrated track record of achieving positive results and developing strong teams. Mr. Bentley earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Cincinnati, in Ohio. Mr. Bentley also holds an MBA from the University of Phoenix and has completed the Advanced Management program at Harvard University. He is a Six Sigma Black Belt. Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. is a world leading global supplier of automotive and commercial highway wheels, brakes, powertrain, suspension, structural and other lightweight components. The Company has 36 facilities and over 10,000 employees worldwide. This press release includes forward looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which represent the Company's expectations and beliefs concerning future events that involve risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this release are forward looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward looking statements include the factors set forth in our periodic reports filed with the SEC. Consequently, all of the forward looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these and other factors, risks and uncertainties. DATASOURCE: Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. CONTACT: Marika P. Diamond of Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc., +1-734-737-5162 Web site: http://www.hayes-lemmerz.com/

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