The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

Noble Announces Operating Management Changes


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)

TROY, Mich., July 28 -- Noble International, Ltd. ("Noble" or the "Company") today announced that Jim Orchard, its Chief Operating Officer, has decided to leave the company as of July 31st. At the same time, the Company will promote Frank Sovis, currently President of Noble's North American Operations, to the position of Chief Operating Officer. Additionally, John Nechiporchik will be promoted to President of North American Operations from his current role of Chief Operating Officer of North America. The promotions of both Mr. Sovis and Mr. Nechiporchik will be effective as of August 1st.

Noble's Chief Executive Officer, Thomas L. Saeli commented, "We are sorry that Jim Orchard has elected to leave the company. Jim is a skilled and seasoned automotive executive, and has been an important part of our leadership team over the past year. We do wish him the best of success in his future business and personal pursuits. Noble is very fortunate to have a strong operational organization, as evidenced by our ability to immediately promote Frank and John into their new roles. They have both done a tremendous job over the past year operating the North American business in a difficult market environment, and have extensive tier one automotive experience."

Prior to joining Noble in early 2007, Frank Sovis was President of Lear Corporation's global interior systems division, a $3 billion per year worldwide manufacturing operation. Frank held a variety of executive positions during his 18 year career at Lear. John Nechiporchik's previous experiences include serving as President of ASC Corporation, where he was employed for almost 19 years, as well as President of both Roush Industries Manufacturing Division and Guide Corporation.