The board of directors of Adient plc has appointed Douglas DelGrosso as president and CEO, effective Oct. 1. He also will join Adient’s board of directors at that time. Also effective Oct. 1, Fritz Henderson will become non-executive chairman of the board.

As an automotive industry veteran, DelGrosso brings significant leadership and operational expertise to Adient. DelGrosso currently serves as president and CEO at automotive supplier Chassix.  From 2012 to 2015, he served as president and CEO at Henniges Automotive. Prior to that, DelGrosso spent five years at TRW Automotive, where he last served as vice president and general manager for the company’s global braking and suspension operations. Prior to joining TRW Automotive, DelGrosso spent more than 20 years at Lear Corp., in a variety of operational roles, the last being president and chief operating officer.

“After conducting an extensive search that resulted in an impressive slate of candidates, the board is pleased to appoint Douglas DelGrosso as Adient’s president and CEO,” said John Barth, interim chairman of the board. “He brings the right vision, leadership experience and operational expertise needed to drive Adient’s transformation forward. In addition, we acknowledge the positive contributions made by Fritz Henderson, who has served as interim CEO since June, which helped stabilize the business and accelerate operational improvements.”

“I am honored to join Adient and accept the board’s appointment,” DelGrosso said. “This is a tremendous opportunity given the company’s leading market position, diverse product offerings and energized employees. I look forward to working closely with the team as we execute our transformation plan, driving improved profitability, cash flow and returns for our shareholders.”