Taking it global

DURA Automotive Systems has created four international business units that will focus on providing for the needs of automotive manufacturers worldwide.

From 1 January 2009, DURA will replace its current structure of seven regional business units with four global product line divisions.

These will include Cable Systems and Glass & Trim Systems based in Michigan, Shifter Systems in Düsseldorf, Germany and Structural & Safety Systems headquartered in Plettenberg, Germany.

Tim Leuliette, president and chief executive officer of DURA, said: ‘Macro economic conditions affecting the global automotive industry have dramatically altered the way automotive suppliers need to do business around the world. The announcement of our move away from regional structure into four global business units will further enhance our efficiency and ability to compete as one global company.'

As part of the reorganisation, François Stouvenot, formerly vice-president of European innovations and sales, has been appointed group vice-president of global sales.

DURA has been awarded approximately $1bn (£579m) in global new contracts this year to date following the financial restructuring of its business. Its growing presence in the US, Germany, France, Japan, Brazil, Russia, India and China will serve the company’s global customer base.