Harley boss to retire

[Bob]

James Ziemer, the President and CEO of Harley-Davidson, has announced he is to retire in 2009.

Ziemer, who has worked for the Milwaukee manufacturer for 40 years, will continue in his current role until a new CEO is in place.

Chairman Jeffrey Bleustein praised Ziemer “ All of us who have worked with Jim throughout the years have benefited from his leadership, his selfless commitment to the Company and his contributions to making the brand one of the most admired and successful brands in the world.”

Ziemer said “Working at Harley-Davidson has been an honour and privilege and has fulfilled a life-long dream for me.”

[Cajun]

Harley-Davidson has announced that CEO Jim Ziemer will retire next year. The Board of Directors has formed a search committee to find Harley’s new leadership, both from internal hires to external prospects. Until a replacement is found, Ziemer will remain at his post.

The 58 year-old’s 40 year career at Harley-Davidson is truly an embodiment of the American dream, starting out as a freight elevator operator and working his way all the way to the top.