PISCATAWAY, N.J. - American Standard Companies Inc. announced that it has named two executives to key leadership positions. Craig Kissel, president of the company's Vehicle Control Systems unit since 1998, will become president of Trane Commercial Systems, and Jacques Esculier, vice president of Trane's international business since June 2002, will become president of Vehicle Control Systems. The appointments will be effective on Jan. 1, 2004.

"With Craig and Jacques in these two key executive positions, American Standard continues to build and strengthen its leadership team," stated Fred Poses, American Standard chairman and chief executive officer. "They are both global leaders, with multi-industry experience, successful track records in delivering short-term financial performance and long-term growth, as well as a talent for developing strong teams."

In his new role, Kissel will assume responsibilities that Poses has handled directly since the beginning of 2002. Trane Commercial Systems, the largest part of American Standard's Air Conditioning Systems and Service business, is a leading global supplier of air conditioning and heating systems and services for commercial and industrial customers, as well as schools, hospitals, and government facilities.

"Having been closely involved in Trane Commercial Systems over the past two years, I am convinced that the time is right for a permanent leader and that Craig is the right person for the job," said Poses. "Having worked closely with Jacques, I am confident that he has the right combination of experience, drive, and leadership skills to head Vehicle Control Systems," Poses added.

Before leading Vehicle Control Systems based in Brussels, Kissel spent 17 years with Trane in various commercial and residential management positions, including four years as vice president and group executive of the North American Unitary Products business.

Before joining American Standard in 2002, Esculier spent more than six years in a variety of leadership positions with Allied Signal/Honeywell.

Publication date: 12/08/2003