Blue Bird Appoints Simon Newman to Board of Directors

Rhea-AI Summary

Blue Bird Corporation (NASDAQ: BLBD) announced the appointment of Simon J. Newman to its Board of Directors, effective April 4, 2023. Newman, with over 40 years of experience in precision-engineered manufacturing and executive strategy, is the chairman of MW Industries and has previously served as CEO of Form Technologies for 18 years. His appointment is expected to enhance Blue Bird's leadership in school bus manufacturing, particularly in low- and zero-emission transportation. Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO of Blue Bird, expressed confidence in Newman's contributions toward improving safety and reliability as the company continues its focus on eco-friendly student transportation.

Blue Bird is recognized as a leader in the school bus industry, with over 20,000 alternative fuel buses in operation.

Positive

• Simon Newman's extensive experience in precision-engineered manufacturing may provide valuable insights for Blue Bird's growth strategies.
• Newman's leadership role in various manufacturing firms is expected to enhance operational efficiency and strategic direction.

Negative

• Concerns may arise regarding the continuity and integration of new leadership into Blue Bird's established culture and operational practices.

Veteran precision manufacturing executive brings decades of industrial, strategy and commercial experience

MACON, Ga.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Blue Bird Corporation (Nasdaq: BLBD), the leader in electric and low-emission school buses, today announced the appointment of Simon J. Newman to its Board of Directors, effective April 4, 2023.

Blue Bird Corporation appointed Simon Newman, a veteran precision manufacturing executive, to its Board of Directors. (Photo: Business Wire)

Newman has over 40 years of leadership experience in the fields of precision-engineered manufacturing, executive strategy and commercial relationships. He joins the Blue Bird Board currently serving as Chairman of MW Industries, including MW Components, a global component manufacturer for the automotive, aerospace, electronics and energy industries, as well as Paragon Medical, a global industry leader in medical device manufacturing.

Newman previously held the position of Chief Executive Officer for Form Technologies for 18 years. He began his career with the Dynacast organization, now a Form Technologies division, in 1979 as an apprentice in the United Kingdom, progressively working through the company in all facets of operations leading to a long and prolific tenure as the Group Chief Executive.

“Simon’s deep manufacturing and strategic leadership experience is highly relevant as we continue to build on Blue Bird’s nearly century-old leadership in school bus manufacturing,” said Matthew Stevenson, president and CEO of Blue Bird Corporation. “Blue Bird school buses carry the most precious cargo in the world. Therefore, we continuously improve the safety, reliability and durability of our vehicles while leading the way to low- and zero-emission student transportation in North America. We look forward to Simon’s contributions and extend a warm welcome to him as he joins our Board of Directors.”

Newman also serves on the Board of Directors of MW Components, Paragon Medical, Elgen Manufacturing and Chromalloy. He received a bachelor of science degree in Operations Management from California Coast University.

About Blue Bird Corporation

Blue Bird (NASDAQ: BLBD) is recognized as a technology leader and innovator of school buses since its founding in 1927. Our dedicated team members design, engineer and manufacture school buses with a singular focus on safety, reliability, and durability. Blue Bird buses carry the most precious cargo in the world – the majority of 25 million children twice a day – making us the most trusted brand in the industry. The company is the proven leader in low- and zero-emission school buses with more than 20,000 propane, natural gas, and electric powered buses in operation today. Blue Bird is transforming the student transportation industry through cleaner energy solutions. For more information on Blue Bird's complete product and service portfolio, visit www.blue-bird.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230406005714/en/

Investor Contact

Mark Benfield

Blue Bird Corporation

T: +1.478.822.2315

E: Mark.Benfield@blue-bird.com

Source: Blue Bird Corporation

FAQ

What is the significance of Simon J. Newman's appointment to Blue Bird's Board of Directors?

Simon J. Newman brings over 40 years of experience in precision-engineered manufacturing and executive strategy, which may enhance Blue Bird's operational efficiency and strategic direction.

When was Simon J. Newman appointed to Blue Bird's Board of Directors?

Simon J. Newman was appointed to the Board of Directors on April 4, 2023.

What are Simon J. Newman's qualifications?

Newman has extensive experience, serving as CEO of Form Technologies and chairman of MW Industries, among other roles in manufacturing.

How could Simon Newman's experience impact Blue Bird Corporation?

Newman's background in manufacturing may strengthen Blue Bird's leadership in safety and reliability, particularly in low- and zero-emission school buses.