Olivie will join American Standard Companies Inc., a $7.6 billion company, as president of the global plumbing sector of the business. American Standard is one of the world's largest manufacturers of plumbing products with sector sales last year of $1.8 billion.

Olivie had been promoted in October 2000 to his current position with Armstrong. He joined the company in 1996 as president, Worldwide Building Products Operations, the ceiling segment of the Armstrong businesses.

"Marc has made significant contributions to the vinyl flooring operation in his short tenure," said chairman and CEO Michael D. Lockhart. "Previously at Building Products, Marc ensured that segment retained its vitality and continued to invest in new products and productivity enhancements.

"This is a wonderful opportunity at American Standard for Marc to run a business which is nearly 50% larger than Armstrong's vinyl flooring business,” Lockhart continued, “and it is an opportunity that will allow him to leverage his international experience and perspective."

Prior to joining Armstrong, Olivie was president of Sara Lee Champion, Europe, based in Italy. Earlier in his career, Olivie was vice president and general manager of Midas Inc.'s European operations and a consultant with McKinsey & Co. Inc.

Olivie, a native of Antwerp, Belgium, graduated from the University of Antwerp with a degree in business management and engineering. He is a member of the board of directors for the Pennsylvania Academy of Music and OneBuild.com, and he also serves on the board of trustees for the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowships in Philadelphia.