Guardian Industries Corp. names Mark LaCasse managing director of Latin American operations

In his new position, LaCasse will oversee all of Guardian's business in Central America, South America and Mexico. Russ Ebeid, president of Guardian Industries' glass group, made the announcement.

"Mark's appointment to managing director of Latin American operations reflects his outstanding accomplishments in responding to a wide range of business issues," says Ebeid. "His skills in managing and motivating people, combined with operational savvy and knowledge of the marketplace, will lead to Guardian's expanding presence in Latin America."

Since joining Guardian Industries in 1993, LaCasse has held positions of increasing responsibility, including sales manager for Latin America and managing director of Guardian's plant in Porto Real, Brazil. Prior to his employment with Guardian, LaCasse served in various roles with United Brands International in New York, Vienna and Rotterdam, Netherlands. LaCasse received a bachelor of science degree from Cornell University in 1993 and a master of science degree from Purdue University in 1994.

Guardian's presence in the Latin American glass market began in early 1990 with the construction of a float glass manufacturing facility in Maturin, Venezuela. In 1998, Guardian started production at its plant in Porto Real, Brazil. The company also operates distribution centers throughout Latin America, with locations in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia and Mexico.