Promotions At Johnson Controls

PLYMOUTH, Mich.--Automotive interior supplier Johnson Controls has promoted two executives to new positions, effective immediately.

Jeffrey Steiner has been appointed vice president of consumer research and new product development for North America, and Bill Fluharty has been named vice president of industrial design for North America--for the company’s Automotive Systems Group. The announcement was made by Rande Somma, president of North America for the Automotive Systems Group.

“We welcome the talent and energy that Jeff Steiner and Bill Fluharty bring to our leadership team,” said Somma. “These appointments further strengthen Johnson Controls' commitment to adding value through consumer research, industrial design, and product development that focuses on innovation.”

Steiner, 36, joined Johnson in 1993 and has served since 1999 as general manager of the company’s Specialty Products Group. In his new role, he will direct long-term product development activities. In addition, Steiner is charged with ensuring that the company anticipates and responds to the “voice of the consumer” throughout the product development process.

Fluharty, 39, joined Johnson in 1984 and most recently served as the company’s director of advanced/new product development design. In his new position, he will lead industrial design activities in North America. In addition, Fluharty will work in close collaboration with the company’s European industrial design team.

Prior to 1999, Steiner served in a series of management positions in the areas of business development and worldwide marketing communications. He holds a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Michigan State University and currently attends the MSU Executive Master’s Degree in Business Administration program.

Fluharty earned a bachelor of fine arts degree in industrial design from Wayne State University. He holds seven automotive patents, and is a member of the Design Management Institute.