LIVONIA, Mich., Sept. 27 Valassis the leader in marketing services and Connective Media(TM), is pleased to announce the promotion of William F. Hogg, Vice President of the Durham Printing Division in Durham, NC, to Executive Vice President of Manufacturing, effective fourth quarter, 2001. In his new position, Hogg's highest priority will be to continue building a competitive manufacturing organization that uses the latest technology and equipment to help Valassis remain a low-cost producer of all of its product lines. Hogg will also become a member of the Executive Committee. Valassis announced Hogg's promotion when Richard N. Anderson, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing and Purchasing, announced plans to retire at the end of 2001. Valassis' three printing facilities, operations divisions and Valassis Fulfillment Mexico will report to Hogg. In all, Hogg will be responsible for 1,300 employees. Hogg has been a leader at Valassis for 22 years. He started in sales support, then moved to operations. For the last several years Hogg has led the company's Durham Printing Division. "I am excited to have the opportunity to succeed Dick Anderson as Executive Vice President of Manufacturing,'' said Hogg. "Dick has been a driving force in developing a highly efficient manufacturing organization. Under his direction, Valassis has established itself as a competitive, low-cost producer of printed materials and has a long standing tradition of being a leader in the graphic arts industry -- truly a world class organization.'' "Bill is the obvious and best person to take on this position,'' said Anderson. "He is a leader highly committed to his fellow employees, has years of experience and has the vision to make the right manufacturing decisions in our constantly changing environment.'' Anderson's paper purchasing responsibilities will ultimately fall under Alan F. Schultz, President and Chief Executive Officer of Valassis, and his media purchasing responsibilities will fall under Robert L. Recchia, Executive Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Hogg and his wife, Nancy, will relocate to the Livonia, MI area this fall.