Affinia Global Brake and Chassis Group of Winchester, Ky., named Heidi Rutz as director of research and development. She will be responsible for disc brake pads, brake shoes and heavy-duty brake block friction formulation and development activities.
Rutz also will be the chief steward of the “Best In Brakes” friction product portfolio for Affinia’s Raybestos brand brakes.
Rutz will focus on formula and process improvements, as well as new product development, for the heavy-duty commercial brake block products sold under the Affinia Brake Pro brand.
“Heidi brings extensive knowledge and expertise to our development team with experience in all forms of friction formulation, raw material sourcing and manufacturing and process control,” said Terry Heffelfinger, director of product engineering, R&D and quality for Affinia Global Brake and Chassis.
Prior to joining Affinia, Rutz held product development positions with Haldex Brake Products and Fras-Le. She also spent nearly 10 years with Echlin Inc. in various development roles.
