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Wandell, currently the president and chief operating officer of Milwaukee, Wis., based Johnson Controls, Inc., will begin his new duties at the Motor Company on May 1.

Keith Wandell is a seasoned global business leader who brings tremendous energy, passion, and organizational and talent development capability to his job as Harley-Davidsons new chief executive, says Barry Allen, presiding director of Harley-Davidsons board. His vision and values make him a great fit, and he is absolutely the right person to now lead Harley-Davidson on its exciting journey.

Wandell has worked for Johnson Controls for 21 years, beginning as a plant manager at the companys battery manufacturing facility in Toledo, Ohio. Over the years, Wandell moved up the Johnson Controls corporate ladder, holding positions such as president of the companys Power Solutions and Automotive Experience divisions.

Harley-Davidson has a remarkable record of success and limitless possibilities. I am honored and thrilled to join the Harley-Davidson family and to have this opportunity to help it fulfill dreams, create innovative market-leading products, and expand its opportunities worldwide, says Wandell.

Outgoing CEO Ziemer announced his intention to retire in December, 2008. Ziemer has worked for Harley-Davidson for 40 years, starting as a freight elevator operator in 1969.

Harley-Davidson also announced three other changes to its corporate leadership.

Matthew Levatich, currently the president and managing director of MV Agusta, becomes the president and CEO of Harley-Davidson Motor Company. Levatich served as vice president of Harley-Davidsons Parts and Accessories business before being handed the task of restarting MV Agustas operations after the Italian marquee was acquired in August, 2008.

Levatich replaces James McCaslin who moves into the newly created position of executive vice president for corporate product planning, reporting directly to the CEO. In this new position, McCaslin will oversee the development of future Harley-Davidson products.

Enrico DOnofrio was appointed managing director of MV Agusta. DOnofrio was previously the corporate general director of MV Agusta. Before that, DOnofrio has held senior management positions with Ducati and Proctor & Gambles European operations.

The appointment of Matt Levatich to the senior leadership position at Harley-Davidson Motor Company recognizes his demonstrated abilities at relationship management and as a strategic thinker and problem solver on the operations side of the business. He will be a strong leader in his expanded role, says Allen. Matts predecessor, Jim McCaslin, has done an outstanding job of leading the Motor Companys operations. His unique talents, passion for products and operational excellence, and market knowledge will now be a great asset to drive the organization forward in the critical area of product planning and development. And we also look forward to growth for MV Agusta, under Enricos leadership.

Levatich, McCaslin and DOnofrio will also assume their new posts on May 1.

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