AKF AB (Sweden; Stockholm: SKFB) has appointed McGrath as the new President of SKF Vehicle Service Market, North America.

VSM [website] is SKF's automotive aftermarket operation, headquartered in Elgin, Illinois.

Mr. McGrath had been VP of VSM, reporting to Bill Diggory. With Mr. Diggory now in a new position at SKF, Mr. McGrath reports to Rutger Barrdahl, who heads up SKF's global automotive aftermarket operations.

Mr. Barrdahl said: "Mike's appointment as President was a very logical decision, based on his experience and knowledge of the North American marketplace. Mike will continue the growth and success of SKF through his leadership and visions."

SKF VSM encompasses five areas: bearings and wheel hub units, lubrication systems, mechatronics, and services.

Addressing one of SKF's perceived weaknesses, Mr. McGrath commented: "One of my primary goals will be to continue to strengthen the ties between our customers and our products and services. We will also make a strong effort to add products to our assortment with the intention of better serving our customers."

Mr. Diggory has moved to a position in Business Development, reporting to SKF Automotive Division and SKF USA President, George Dettloff.

Mr. Diggory led SKF's aftermarket business unit after coming to the company with its acquisition of Chicago Rawhide. He is also the outgoing 2005-2006 HDMA board chairman.

In his new position, Mr. Diggory will, "focus on business development activities and initiatives in support of SKF Automotive Division's strategic goals. He will pursue products and services not currently being sold through SKF's Automotive Division channels and explore new market opportunities."

No replacement has been announced for Mr. McGrath's open VP position.