Collins & Aikman Names Jones Chief Operating Officer for North American Automotive Interior Systems' Fabric Group
31 August 2000
Collins & Aikman Names Jones Chief Operating Officer for North American Automotive Interior Systems' Fabric Group
TROY, Mich.--Aug. 31, 2000--Collins & Aikman Corporation today announced the appointment of Gerald E. Jones as Chief Operating Officer for its North American Automotive Interior Systems' Fabrics Group. Jones will report directly to Frank Preston, President, North American Automotive Interior Systems. In making today's announcement, Preston commented, "As Collins & Aikman continues to position itself as the `complete interior styling products source' for its global customers, Jones' extensive automotive fabric experience and operational leadership capabilities will help us enhance our position as a leader in the marketplace."As COO, Jones will be responsible for improving the operating performance of Collins & Aikman's fabric operations and will focus his efforts on building a strong teamwork environment that enhances the contributions of all Collins & Aikman's fabric employees. In addition, he will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative practices in the overall fabric design and manufacturing operations of the Company.
A recognized veteran in business operations and manufacturing of automotive fabrics, Jones joined Collins & Aikman in 1995 as Director of Manufacturing. He was then promoted to General Manager for the Company's Automotive Wovens business in April, 2000. Prior to joining Collins & Aikman, Jones was plant manager for Milliken & Company's operations located in Spartanburg, S.C. Jones brings more than 30 years of textile manufacturing and business experience to his new assignment and holds a bachelor's degree in economics from Newberry College, Newberry, S.C.
Collins & Aikman Corporation is the global leader of floor and acoustic systems and a leading supplier of automotive fabric, interior trim, and convertible top systems. The company's operations span the globe with 63 facilities and nearly 16,000 employees in 12 countries who are committed to achieving total excellence. Collins & Aikman's high-quality products combine industry-leading design and styling capabilities, superior manufacturing capabilities and the industry's most effective NVH "quiet" technologies. For more information about Collins & Aikman, visit the Company's website at www.collinsaikman.com.