Peter Perez, a 40-year veteran of the manufacturing sector and president of Carter Products, is joining the U.S. Department of Commerce's International Trade Administration as the deputy assistant secretary for manufacturing.

Perez will be responsible for identifying key factors affecting competitiveness and barriers to exports for more than 21 industry sectors.

"Peter's extensive experience as a manufacturer will be invaluable to the manufacturing and services unit of ITA as we develop strategies to sustain and strengthen manufacturing in the United States to support job creation," said Nicole Y. Lamb-Hale, assistant secretary for manufacturing and services, in a news release. "Having successfully led his business through good times and bad using various strategies including exporting, Peter has firsthand knowledge of the opportunities and challenges faced by U.S. manufacturers."

"I am looking forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting to work to support the President's National Export Initiative and to improve the competitiveness of American manufacturers," says Perez. "I am very passionate about putting people back to work and making sure our companies can compete globally on a level playing field."

Perez has served as the president of the Wood Machinery Manufacturers of America and on the board of the National Association of Manufacturers as a representative for small and medium manufacturing companies.

The International Trade Administration's mission is to strengthen the competitiveness of U.S. industry, promote trade and investment, and ensure fair trade through the rigorous enforcement of our trade laws and agreements. For information, visit www.trade.gov.