Xerium Appoints Tom Johnson To Lead Asia Operations

Youngsville, N.C.-based Xerium Technologies Inc. — a global supplier of paper machine clothing and roll technology — has named Thomas “Tom” Johnson president, Xerium Asia. The company recently opened a fabric-forming plant in Vietnam and acquired two roll-cover businesses in Asia.

“Tom brings proven executive leadership experience in developing and nurturing Asian business to business relationships and revenue growth to his new assignment, as well as a solid background in operational management developed in businesses serving both [original equipment manufacturers] and consumables markets worldwide,” said Stephen Light, president, CEO and chairman, Xerium Technologies. The customer base he served included major manufacturers in China and Japan in the aerospace, electronics, and commercial manufacturing markets. Tom also led successful alliance projects between his former employer, Flow International Corporation, and Chinese manufacturing companies leading to the development of jointly marketed products worldwide.”

Employees reporting directly to Johnson include Bill Roth, Asia clothing sales; William Leishman, China roll sales; Geoff Charnley, Asian operations; Graeme Noble, Vietnam facility construction project; and Chang Liu, Asia financial controller.

September 17, 2008