Axalta Coating Systems has named David Grimes to the newly created role of global vice president of its Automotive Plastic Components (APC) business. In this position, Grimes will provide global strategy for the APC business to help drive growth across regions and work with R&D teams to create products that help Axalta customers exceed their objectives. Automakers are increasingly looking to plastic and other new materials as they work to help satisfy fuel economy goals by enabling production of lighter weight vehicles.
“Around the globe, new materials are enhancing vehicle performance. Axalta is and will continue to be a leader in this segment as we operate as a growth-oriented organization,” said Steven Markevich, Axalta senior vice president and president of its Light Vehicle OEM coatings business. “David brings a unique combination of skills to this new position, and I look forward to him continuing his track record of success as part of the global Axalta team.”
Grimes earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Wayne State University in Detroit and a Masters of Business Administration degree from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. He will operate out of Axalta’s Light Vehicle OEM headquarters in Clinton Township, Michigan.
