In a major shakeup, Hercules Inc. has named two new vice presidents in its Utah operations and announced it is taking a close look at efficiency.
Richard Schwartz, Hercules senior vice president and president of Hercules Aerospace Co., said the changes are aimed at enhancing the aerospace company's overall competitiveness during a period of decreased federal budgets and increased competition."Aerospace requirements are changing rapidly, and we must continue to adjust to remain competitive," Schwartz said. "We will strive to shorten lines of communication between operational functions and top management and keep decisionmaking at the lowest possible levels while fully employing a team-oriented management style."
Ronald G. Peterson, who is joining Hercules from Rockwell International, replaces Ruth L. Novak as vice president and general manager of space and strategic propulsion.
Novak "will assume a role in the organization that will capitalize on her extensive experience," said Hercules spokesman David Nicponski. "Initially, Ms. Novak will be on a special assignment to assist Mr. Peterson's transition into Hercules."
Hercules has eight divisions, headquartered in Wilmington, Del. The changes in Utah are "part of an overall restructuring that the corporation has been engaged in for over a year," Nicponski said.
At Rockwell, Peterson worked in senior management positions for the past 20 years, most recently as general manager of the Rocketdyne Division's Idaho Falls facility.
Gary R. Muir was named vice president of the Operations Services, responsible for managing safety, quality, environmental matters, engineering and information throughout the aerospace company.
Other changes, involving switches in the operations in the East, include: - John F. Hixon, vice president and general manager of tactical propulsion, will manage all tactical programs from the Allegany Ballistics Laboratory in West Virginia.
- Howard S. Krosser, vice president for armament systems, is responsible for pursuing new business opportunities with the next generation munition systems.
- William G. Wilson, vice president for business development, will be responsible for directing the aerospace company's marketing efforts.