ROCHESTER HILLS, Mich. -- Patriarch Partners' Automotive Platform today announced a new management structure for DURA Automotive Systems and Global Automotive Systems (GAS). Patriarch acquired a majority ownership in Dura Automotive in early 2010.

As part of the new management structure, the company announced that Tim Leuliette will step down as managing director for the Platform and as CEO of DURA, following a successful operational and balance sheet restructuring.

"I want to thank Tim for his leadership at the helm during one of the most difficult periods in the history of our industry and our nation's economy," said Lynn Tilton, founder and CEO of Patriarch Partners. "Our strong financial position, advanced technology and exceptional management team will allow us to move forward aggressively into our next phase of innovation and growth."

The following management team members have been promoted to complete the new organization:

Tom Chambers, who has served as chief operating officer for DURA since January 2009 has been appointed managing director of Patriarch Partners' Automotive Platform, succeeding Leuliette. In this role, Chambers will be responsible for DURA and Global Automotive Systems. He will also continue as the CEO of GAS, a position he has held since May 2010.

Jeff Stafeil becomes CEO of DURA, replacing Tim Leuliette. Stafeil was executive vice president and CFO for DURA.

Martin Becker becomes executive vice president and chief operating officer for DURA, replacing Chambers. Becker was executive vice president and general manager for DURA's global control systems division.

Jim Gregory becomes executive vice president and CFO for DURA, replacing Stafeil. Gregory was vice president and CFO for Global Automotive Systems. He will continue to support the GAS financial operations until a successor is named.

"The depth and talent within both DURA and GAS allows us to exercise a management succession plan that promotes and hires from within," Tilton said. "Our new management structure strongly positions the Patriarch Automotive Platform to achieve our strategic growth and performance initiatives."

Information about DURA and its products is available here.

Click here to learn more about Global Automotive Systems.