High Point, N.C. – Kelley Platt has been named president and CEO of Thomas Built Buses, effective January 1, 2010. Platt, who joined Daimler Trucks North America LLC (DTNA) in 1989 as Freightliner manager of treasury services, played a pivotal role in the company’s 1998 acquisition of Thomas Built Buses (TBB). Most recently, Platt served as general manager of business excellence, where she was responsible for product quality, business processes and customer satisfaction.

“I am excited to build upon the groundwork laid by John O’Leary, an important leader in the school bus industry,” said Platt. “By driving innovation and introducing new products, he has grown the Thomas Built name during his tenure and helped deliver new, greener technologies that transport children in a more environmentally-friendly manner.”

Platt has a bachelor’s degree in economics from Colby College and an MBA from Duke University. She and her family have relocated from Portland, Ore. to High Point, where TBB is headquartered.

John O’Leary, who joined TBB in 2002, served as president until 2010. O’Leary moved to a new role as senior vice president, service and parts, for DTNA. He will serve as a member of DTNA’s operating committee and will participate in overall management of the company.

Thomas Built Buses (www.thomasbus.com) is the leading manufacturer of school buses in North America, with more than one-third of the market. Since the first Thomas Built bus rolled off the assembly line in 1936, the company has been committed to delivering the smartest and most innovative buses in North America.

Thomas Built Buses, Inc. is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, the largest heavy-duty truck manufacturer in North America and a leading manufacturer of class 4-8 vehicles. Daimler Trucks North America produces and markets commercial vehicles under the Freightliner, Western Star and Thomas Built Buses nameplates. Daimler Trucks North America is a Daimler company.