Gentex Corp., the Zeeland, Michigan-based manufacturer of automatic-dimming rearview mirrors, automotive electronics, dimmable aircraft windows and fire protection products, has announced the promotion of Steve Downing to president, chief operating officer, interim chief financial officer and treasurer. Downing will continue to report to Fred Bauer, chairman and CEO.

Downing was previously the company’s senior vice president, chief financial officer and treasurer.

Gentex management says that its foundations of devotion to quality and innovation, ownership mentality and unpretentious management have created a cohesive and cooperative leadership team, with depth and breadth of talent. Downing is an example of that, beginning as a financial analyst but then taking on ever-increasing responsibilities in various disciplines, including customer interface, sales and product development, among others. He is a respected leader with 15 years of demonstrated ability to deliver results using core Gentex principles. This promotion will provide Downing the opportunity to even more fully contribute to the future growth and success of the company.

Downing stated, “I would like to thank the whole team here at Gentex who has built an outstanding company. I humbly look forward to continuing our team’s work on strategic prioritization and building on the company’s history of operational excellence.”