Harley-Davidson Names New President and CEO

MILWAUKEE — Harley-Davidson Inc. announced in April that it appointed Keith E. Wandell as president and chief executive officer, succeeding James L. Ziemer, who is retiring.

Wandell, 59, currently serves as president and chief operating officer of Milwaukee-based Johnson Controls Inc., a $38 billion global company. Wandell, a 21-year Johnson Controls veteran, starts his new duties at Harley-Davidson on May 1.

“Keith Wandell is a seasoned global business leader who brings tremendous energy, passion, and organizational and talent development capability to his job as Harley-Davidson’s new chief executive,” said Harley-Davidson Inc. board member Barry K. Allen, who serves as the board’s presiding director. “His vision and values make him a great fit, and he is absolutely the right person to now lead Harley-Davidson on its exciting journey.”

Regarding his appointment, Wandell commented: “Harley-Davidson has a remarkable record of success and limitless possibilities. I am honored and thrilled to join the Harley-Davidson family and to have this opportunity to help it fulfill dreams, create innovative market-leading products, and expand its opportunities worldwide.”

The company also announced organizational leadership changes which, according to Allen, will serve as a catalyst to drive Harley-Davidson’s strategies for growth, operational excellence and leadership development going forward.

Matthew S. Levatich becomes president and chief operating officer of Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Levatich, 44, is currently president and managing director of MV Agusta, the Italian motorcycle maker that Harley-Davidson Inc. acquired last August.

James A. McCaslin moves to executive vice president for corporate product planning, reporting to the CEO. In this newly created position, McCaslin, 60, has broad oversight of motorcycle product planning and development processes across Harley-Davidson Inc.

Enrico D’Onofrio, 51, assumes the post of managing director, MV Agusta. D’Onofrio joined MV Agusta as corporate general director earlier in 2009, overseeing all administrative functions including finance and human resources.

All three appointments will be effective May 1.