Applied Acoustics International Appoints New CEO

Applied Acoustics International (AAI), a Tier 1 supplier of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) solutions to the North American automotive industry, announced the appointment of Larry Hagood as chief executive officer. Hagood will lead efforts to establish a standalone business and position AAI for future growth. AAI is a portfolio company of Angeles Equity Partners, LLC, a private investment firm focused on value creation through operational transformation.

Prior to joining AAI, Hagood served as chief operating officer for Autoneum North America, a leading global producer of vehicle acoustic and thermal management systems. Hagood was responsible for leading the North American operations of Autoneum through the automotive downturn, and subsequently through a period of significant expansion. Previously, Hagood was VP Operations North America & Asia for Magna International, overseeing 2500 employees at seven plants with almost $1.5 billion in revenue. Hagood began his career at Johnson Controls.

“Larry is a very experienced automotive executive who brings the right skills and capabilities to position Applied Acoustics International to achieve its full potential,” says Timothy Meyer, co-founder and managing partner of Angeles Equity Partners.

“I am very excited to join the AAI team and collaborate with Angeles Equity Partners,” says Hagood. “The Chicago Heights business has a strong reputation as a trusted supplier to North American auto makers. I look forward to helping the company realize its potential by working with the talented and dedicated team at AAI to deliver exceptional value and support to our customers.”

Hagood earned a bachelor’s degree in business and operational management from Murray State University, and is a graduate of the Executive Program at Stanford University Graduate School of Business. He has extensive experience implementing Lean Manufacturing and Toyota Production System principles across global operations.