Cooper-Standard Automotive elevates Hasler to CEO

Novi, Michigan -- The board of directors of Cooper-Standard Holdings Inc., the parent company of Cooper-Standard Automotive Inc., today announced that the company hais appointed Edward 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.

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.

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Press release from Cooper-Standard Automotive