Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. Realigns Global Operations

NORTHVILLE, Michigan, September 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. ("Hayes" or the "Company") announced today that effective September 1, 2009, the Company realigned its global operational sites into three regions.

Fred Bentley, President and Chief Operating Officer, stated, "The purpose of the realignment is to become more strategically focused in the operation of the business by aligning the organization into specific regions. This realignment allows us to continue our global focus on the customer base while creating additional efficiencies from the functional support groups. This is a great move for our business and allows us to continue to develop our future leaders."

The organization will be aligned into three regions.

The first region is Turkey.

Mustafa Zaim - Managing Director of Turkish Operations will continue in his present role as Managing Director and will also assume the additional responsibilities coordinating Global Materials management as well as act in an Advisory capacity to the EAAP region on operational matters. Zaim will continue to report to Mr. Bentley.

The second region is Europe, Africa and Asia Pacific (EAAP).

Pieter Klinkers - Vice President Sales & Marketing has been promoted to President - Europe, Africa & Asia Pacific.

David Kasul - Managing Director - Brazil has been promoted to Vice President - Operations for Europe and Africa.

Marc Hendrickx will replace Klinkers in the role of Vice President - Sales & Marketing.

The third region is "The Americas" which consists of North America, Mexico and Brazil.

Donald Hampton - Vice President - North American Wheels Group has been promoted to Vice President and General Manager for the Americas.

Luis Blecher - Financial Director - Brazil has been promoted to Managing Director of Brazil to replace David Kasul and will be responsible for all Brazilian operations.

About Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc.

Originally founded in 1908, Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc. is a leading worldwide producer of aluminum and steel wheels for passenger cars and light trucks and of steel wheels for commercial trucks and trailers. The Company is also a supplier of automotive powertrain components. The Company has global operations with 23 facilities, including business, sales offices and manufacturing facilities, located in 12 countries around the world. The Company sells products to every major North American, Asian and European manufacturer of passenger cars and light trucks and to commercial highway vehicle customers throughout the world.