KANSAS CITY, Mo. — The American CEO of Haldex has announced he is stepping down as CEO of the company effective Dec. 1.

Jay Longbottom cited difficulties in managing a publicly-listed company based in Sweden from the US as a reason for his decision. He’ll be replaced by Ulf Ahlen, former executive vice-president of Haldex Traction as acting CEO until a permanent replacement is found, Haldex announced.

Longbottom will remain with Haldex as president of North American operations and will also serve as executive vice-president for the Haldex Air Control division.

“My commitment to Haldex will not in any way change,” Longbottom said. “From a personal point of view this is the best solution for all parties since it has shown to be very difficult to combine living in the US and leading a global company with its headquarters in Sweden.”

“We respect Jay´s decision to step down as CEO of Haldex,” says Goran Carlson, chairman of the Board of Haldex AB. “Jay is a well-liked manager who has greatly added to the company’s development. We are pleased that Jay will be able to focus more on the North American market and take on the role as head of the important Air Control Division. At the same time we have secured a smooth transition with Ulf Ahlen as acting CEO, who with his Haldex Group background will add valuable experience and competence.”