PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Nortek Inc., a leading diversified global manufacturer of branded residential and commercial ventilation, HVAC, and technology products, announced that it has appointed Michael J. Clarke as its president and chief executive officer. He also becomes a member of the Nortek board of directors.

Nortek began an extensive search process to replace longtime CEO Richard Bready upon his retirement. The company said it selected Clarke based on his 25 years of relevant experience driving growth in both revenue and profitability within the technology and industrial sectors. He most recently served as group president, Integrated Network Solutions at Flextronics International Ltd., a publicly traded company providing design and electronics manufacturing services to a wide range of end markets.

Interim CEO J. David Smith returns to his role as a member of Nortek’s board of directors.

“The board is very encouraged by the outlook for Nortek as our extensive review of our business plan is well underway and we have successfully recruited Michael as CEO. We feel that his experience and leadership will help us to realize our growth plan,” said Smith. “We were attracted to Michael because he has demonstrated a long track record of expanding several manufacturing divisions through multiple market cycles. The board also felt that his experience in a broad array of sectors relevant to our business, as well as his proven ability to motivate, retain, and develop talent would be important to Nortek and its stakeholders.”

“I am excited to join the Nortek team, and to build upon its long history of developing innovative home and commercial ventilation, HVAC, and technology products, providing superior customer service and fostering a dynamic corporate culture,” said Clarke.

Nortek’s brands include Broan, Nordyne, and CES Group. For more information, visit www.nortek-inc.com.

Publication date: 01/09/2012