Dana names new CEO

5/27/2009

Toledo-based auto supplier Dana Holding Corp. Wednesday named a 56-year-old executive of the Eaton Corp. as its third chief executive officer in 13 months.

James E. Sweetnam, replaces John Devine, who will continue to serve as the company's executive chairman. Mr. Devine, who became chairman of Dana's board as it was emerging from Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, assumed the auto parts maker's top executive post in November when Gary Convis, 65, stepped down after six months on the job.

He is to assume the role in early July, Dana spokesman Chuck Hartlage said.

"We are very excited that Jim has decided to join the Dana leadership team," Mr. Devine said in a written statement. "He has a tremendous track record of success internationally. His deep knowledge of our business, especially the commercial vehicle segment, will ensure a brief and smooth transition for him."

Mr. Sweetnam most recently served as president of Eaton Corp.'s $2.3 billion global truck group, which manufactures, markets, and sells transmissions, clutches, and drivetrain systems to global truck OEMs. He joined Eaton in 1997 as vice president and general manager of the company's Heavy-Duty Transmission Division, Truck. In 2000, Mr. Sweetnam was named vice president, Operations, Heavy-Duty Transmission Clutch and Aftermarket, Truck. From 2001 to 2008, he served as senior vice president and president, Truck Group.

Prior to joining Eaton, Mr. Sweetnam spent 10 years at Cummins Engine Company where he served in a variety of significant roles, including president of Cummins Electronics Company and group managing director of Holset Engineering Co., Ltd., Cummins' U.K.-based global turbo charger business.