ANN ARBOR, Mich. - Tecumseh Products Co. announced that Michael Noelke has been named executive vice president, sales, marketing, and engineering.

Noelke is joining Tecumseh Products from the Sporlan Division of Parker Hannifin Corp., Washington, Mo., where he was global vice president, business development.

“Mike has had a distinguished career in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration business, and he has a proven track record of creating value for customers and shareholders,” said James Wainright, Tecumseh Products president and CEO.

“His broad background in engineering, sales, marketing, and operations makes him a perfect fit for Tecumseh Products, and his hands-on approach will allow us to take our performance to a new, higher level and forge even stronger relationships with customers.”

During his 32-year career with Sporlan, Noelke served as division general manager, operations manager, and marketing manager, as well as in various sales, engineering, and planning positions. Under his leadership, Sporlan delivered significant improvements in quality, customer service, and revenue driven by lean manufacturing, a disciplined supply chain management process, and customer-focused product development.

Noelke replaces Pat Canavan, formerly vice president of global sales and marketing, who is leaving Tecumseh Products at the end of the year.

The company also announced that James Nicholson, vice president, treasurer, and CFO, is leaving the company at the end of the year. The company is currently in advanced discussions with a potential replacement for Nicholson.

“I’d like to thank Jim and Pat for their contributions to Tecumseh Products and we wish them much success in the future,” said Wainright.

For more information, visit www.tecumseh.com.

Publication date: 02/01/2010