NORCROSS, Ga. – AkzoNobel has appointed Margret Kleinsman general manager for Automotive & Aerospace Coatings Americas (A&AC). Kleinsman, an AkzoNobel veteran, has held key management positions in multiple units throughout the company. In this assignment, she will lead the A&AC Vehicle Refinishes and Commercial vehicle business operations in the United States, Canada, Mexico and South America. 
“Margret has a proven leadership track record and brings an unprecedented perspective to our businesses in the Americas,” said Jim Rees, global general manager for Automotive & Aerospace Coatings. “The collision repair market in the Americas is constantly evolving. New automotive technologies, a growing interest in sustainable business practices and the need to develop a more knowledgeable and diverse workforce — each are key issues that AkzoNobel must embrace. Margret’s background and experience will be extremely beneficial as our industry evolves and we work to bring new innovations to help our customers in these areas.”
In commenting on her appointment, Kleinsman said, “The Americas is considered to be a key strategic sector for AkzoNobel. A&AC has earned a leadership position within the Americas by delivering superior products and services that enable our distribution partners and collision repair customers to build and maintain sustainable businesses. I look forward to continuing to be an agent for change that will aid all stakeholders in advancing our mutual interests.”
Kleinsman is preceded as general manager of A&AC Americas by AB Ghosh. Ghosh will assume the position of global general manager for AkzoNobel Powder Coatings, headquartered in Sassenheim, The Netherlands.
