Harley-Davidson Appoints New GM for York Plant

After announcing earlier this week it will keep its motorcycle operations in York, Pennsylvania, as well as plans to restructure those operations too, Harley-Davidson has also named a new general manager there, who will oversee the aforementioned cost cutting measures and vehicle operations.

Ed Magee will succeed Fred Gates, current Vice President and General Manager, who will retire in 2010, starting December 16, 2009.

"Through his various assignments at Harley-Davidson, Ed has demonstrated he has the skills and ability to lead York and its transformation into a best-in-class operation," said Karl Eberle, Senior Vice President of Manufacturing. "I have no doubt that Ed, working closely with York's joint union and management restructuring team, will successfully evolve York into a lean, effective and efficient factory."

Magee earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the US Naval Academy, a Master's Degree in Public Administration from George Mason University and a Master's Degree in Business Administration from Duke University.

Prior to joining Harley-Davidson in 2003, Magee served in the US Marine Corps, ending his service at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2002.

His most recent roles with Harley-Davidson were as General Manager of the Company's Capitol Drive Powertrain Operations in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin and General Manager of Special Projects for Harley-Davidson's global manufacturing operations. Prior to his role as General Manager at Capitol Drive, Magee served as the Process Lead for Manufacturing.

According to a company statement, Magee, who is an avid motorcycle enthusiast, will relocate to the York area in the near future.