SAN RAMON, CA - January 1, 2008 - The Corporation for Manufacturing Excellence (Manex) is pleased to announce the addition of Bill Browne as an engagement manager in their Northern California manufacturing consulting practice. With more than 28 years of extensive manufacturing expertise, Browne has significant experience in domestic and international operations (including China, Hong Kong and the UK) spanning a wide range of industries, including high-tech, automotive, and consumer products.

Prior to joining Manex, Browne was General Manager at Triangle Coatings, Inc. where he was responsible for managing two manufacturing operations. During his tenure, he led the organization to achieve a 20% improvement in productivity. Previously, Browne held executive management positions with a number of organizations including Morgan Crucible, Consolidated Container Company and Mattel, Inc. where he was instrumental in driving cultural transformations that enhanced profitability, productivity and efficiency. Under his leadership at Mattel Toys Hong Kong, the operations doubled production without adding resources through the implementation of Just-In-Time manufacturing techniques.

"We are delighted to have Bill join our team," said Brent Meyers, President and Chief Executive Officer. "He has a proven track record of running highly efficient, world class operations for complex organizations. With his superior management skills and extensive manufacturing experience, he will be a tremendous asset to Manex as we continue to better serve our clients."

Browne holds an MBA with high honors from the University of Detroit, and a BS in Engineering Arts (a combination of Engineering and General Business) from Michigan State University. Browne has also achieved his certification as an American Society for Quality (ASQ) Six Sigma Green Belt.

About Manex
Founded in 1995, The Corporation for Manufacturing Excellence (Manex) (www.manexconsulting.com) provides a broad array of proven advisory and implementation solutions exclusively to manufacturers, distributors and their supply chains, enabling them to increase growth, productivity, quality and profitability. Manex delivers high-impact solutions in four key areas: strategy, people, process and performance. Meaningful, rapid impact and ROI are achieved through a modular-yet-holistic approach encompassing corporate strategy and planning, marketing strategy, training and development, lean manufacturing, supply chain and logistics, Six Sigma, ISO and performance management systems.