Fras-le, one of the largest friction materials manufacturers in the world, appointed Rodrigo Meirelles as VP/GM, North American and European operations.

Meirelles will oversee the growth of Fras-le’s business in both markets, effective immediately.

He will also oversee the production launch of heavy-duty brake linings at Fras-le’s manufacturing facility in Prattville, Ala., later this year. It will be the first time in Fras-le’s history that it produces heavy-duty brake lining in the U.S. Meirelles is based in Michigan, near Fras-le’s North American headquarters. He will divide his time between Fras-le’s operations in the U.S., Germany and Brazil.