OVERLAND PARK, Kan., Jan. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- YRC Worldwide Inc. (NASDAQ: YRCW) today announced that Michelle A. Russell, 42, has been appointed the company's executive vice president, general counsel and secretary effective Feb. 13, 2012. Russell recently served as general counsel at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc.

"We are very fortunate and extremely pleased to welcome Michelle back to the YRC Worldwide team," said James Welch, chief executive officer - YRC Worldwide. "Michelle knows our business thoroughly, having risen through the ranks in her earlier career at YRC Worldwide. The combination of her deep legal expertise, knowledge of the company and invaluable insight into the industry will bring immediate and lasting value."

"I want to thank Jeff Bennett for taking on the interim role as general counsel and for his tireless dedication leading the legal risk and compliance team. We are very fortunate that Jeff will remain with YRC Worldwide in his new role as deputy general counsel," added Welch.

Previously, Russell was senior vice president and general counsel at Spirit AeroSystems, Inc. Prior to holding that position, she served in a variety of roles and ultimately became vice president - legal and assistant general counsel at YRC Worldwide during her twelve-year tenure with the company. Russell earned a juris doctorate degree at the University of Kansas School of Law and is a member of multiple professional affiliations. Russell also earned bachelor's degrees in Atmospheric Science and Anthropology at the University of Kansas.

"I am excited to be a part of James' leadership team and most importantly a member of YRC Worldwide once again," said Russell. "This is a great opportunity to bring a fresh perspective from my outside role as a general counsel. I am honored the board and James have made me part of the team that will bring YRC Worldwide back to an industry leading position."

"The YRC Worldwide board and I wanted to bring in a strong individual to lead the legal, risk and compliance team. We have found that leader in Michelle and it's great to welcome her back," added Welch.

About YRC Worldwide
YRC Worldwide Inc., a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Overland Park, Kan., is a leading provider of transportation and global logistics services. It is the holding company for a portfolio of successful brands including YRC, YRC Reimer, Holland, Reddaway, and New Penn, and provides China-based services through its Jiayu and JHJ joint ventures. YRC Worldwide has one of the largest, most comprehensive less-than-truckload (LTL) networks in North America with local, regional, national and international capabilities. Through its team of experienced service professionals, YRC Worldwide offers industry-leading expertise in heavyweight shipments and flexible supply chain solutions, ensuring customers can ship industrial, commercial and retail goods with confidence. Please visit www.yrcw.com for more information.

Web site: www.yrcw.com

Follow YRC Worldwide on Twitter: http://twitter.com/yrcworldwide


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SOURCE YRC Worldwide Inc.