Johnsen joined Safe Effect on September 9, 2005 as CEO and has led the company through its recapitalisation and strategic repositioning over the past 18 months.

He has over 30 years experience in the development and licensing of advanced technology for the automotive industry, having held senior management roles with Orbital Corporation in both Australia and the US and served on the Orbital board for 13 years.

Safe Effect chairman David Humann said he was delighted to announce Johnsen's appointment to the board.

"Over the past 18 months Ken has played a vital role in managing Safe Effect's recapitalisation and re-listing on the ASX and overseeing the continued commercialisation of the company's products, including its patented Sealed Integrated Braking System," he said.

"He has already made a substantial contribution to the company and we look forward to his continued leadership as CEO and now as a fellow director."