BRUSSELS -- WABCO Holdings Inc. has announced that Jacques Esculier, the company's chief executive officer (CEO), will assume the additional role of chairman of the board. This appointment takes effect immediately following WABCO's 2009 Annual Shareholders Meeting on May 28. Esculier has been leading WABCO since January 2004.

James Hardymon, the company's non-executive chairman of the board, will be appointed to the position of lead director on the same date, subject to his re-election for a new term at WABCO's 2009 Annual Shareholders Meeting. Hardymon will preside at all meetings of the company's non-management directors and assume other responsibilities to further ensure that non-management directors can perform their duties.

"Jacques Esculier strongly contributes to WABCO's leadership position in the commercial vehicle industry and he is passionate about continuing the company's long track record of outstanding results," said Hardymon. "At this stage in the company's growth, I can better serve WABCO through my new role as lead director, assisting Jacques as well as every other board member."