Blue Water Automotive Systems Announces Leadership Team Promotions

Stevens promoted to vice president of marketing and sales, Riedel to vice president of engineering

MARYSVILLE, Mich., Jan. 16 -- To continue the company's effort to develop a platform for profitable growth, Blue Water Automotive Systems announced the promotions of Glenn Stevens to vice president of marketing and sales; and Gary Riedel to vice president of engineering.

In his new position, Stevens will be responsible for sales strategy, business development, sales team leadership, and marketing and communications activities, ensuring customer satisfaction and continuing to diversify the customer base. Riedel will be responsible for Blue Water's comprehensive product engineering functions, which include full-service design, tooling, program management, application development and advanced technology.

"Glenn's proven abilities in sales management and business development, along with Gary's expertise in engineering management will help Blue Water increase sales and provide better value to our customers," said Michael Lord, president and CEO, Blue Water Automotive Systems. "We're confident that, with the strength of our management team, we've created a competitive platform for growth and we're headed in the right direction as we begin 2007."

Stevens joined Blue Water in 2003, and most recently served as director of marketing and sales. Prior to joining Blue Water, Stevens worked for the Kolene Corporation and the National Steel Corporation. Riedel joined Blue Water in 2005, and most recently served as executive director of engineering. Prior to joining Blue Water, Riedel worked for a variety of automotive suppliers including Lear and Textron Automotive.

In addition to Stevens and Riedel, Blue Water's management team includes Michael Lord, president and chief executive officer; Catherine Baurhenn, vice president of supply chain; Bob LaVigne, vice president of operations; and Ron Shuk, chief financial officer.

About Blue Water Automotive Systems

Blue Water is a leader in the design and manufacture of engineered thermoplastic components and assemblies for the automotive industry. The company's product categories include airflow management, full interior trim/sub-systems, functional plastic components, and value-added assemblies. They are supported by full-service design, program management, manufacturing and tooling capabilities. With over 1,400 employees, Blue Water operates six manufacturing and product development facilities in Michigan, North Carolina, Massachusetts, as well as one in Mexico, and has annual revenues of $200 million. The company's headquarters and technology center is located in Marysville, Mich. Blue Water is owned by KPS Special Situations Funds, a family of private equity funds with over $600 million of committed capital focused on constructive investing in restructurings, turnarounds and other special situations.

NOTE TO EDITORS: Stevens resides in Beverly Hills, Mich. and Riedel resides in Washington, Mich.