Greenville-based Sage Automotive Interiors names new president and CEO

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A manufacturer with a major presence in the upstate has a new leader.

Sage Automotive Interiors has announced the appointment of Dan Russian as its new president and CEO. Russian succeeds Chris Heard, who is retiring March 31 after a 38-year career.

A University of Tennessee alumnus with a degree in industrial engineering, Russian’s tenure spans over 33 years, according to a news release. He began his career as a shift manager in 1990, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the company throughout his career.

“Dan has the experience and exposure to all parts of the company to take us forward in a way that will advance the company toward its 2030 goals and beyond,” Chairman of the Sage Automotive Interiors board of directors, Dirk Pieper, said in the release.

In 2009, Russian was part of the team that created Sage Automotive Interiors from Milliken’s Automotive Division, the release stated. He became vice president, Europe during a five-year expat assignment in Europe — living in Germany and Italy, helping to integrate new Sage acquisitions. Upon return to the United States, Dan became vice president, sales and marketing (Americas).

Sage Automotive Interiors enters its 15th year since becoming independent in 2009, according to the release. Currently, Sage has approximately $1 billion in annual revenue and operates on five continents with 5,000 employees globally.

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South Carolina hosts four manufacturing locations, and the company headquarters, employing roughly 1,000 people in Greenville, Spartanburg and Abbeville counties. Sage also has a location in Georgia.

“Sage Automotive Interiors is well positioned for the future. We are strategically positioned to continue growth globally and maintain our position as the #1 preferred supplier to the automotive interior industry,” said Russian in the release.