Roush shuffles crew chiefs; Beam competition director

CONCORD, N.C. -- Roush Fenway Racing has promoted Mike Beam to competition director and shuffled its crew chief lineup for the 2010 Nationwide Series season.

Crew chief Ben Leslie will be paired with rookie Ricky Stenhouse Jr. and Eddie Pardue has been tapped to lead Colin Braun during his first season in the series.

Mike Beam

"I'm looking to Ben Leslie to provide stability from his 15-plus year NASCAR experience," team owner Jack Roush said. "The addition of Beam's position will provide more leadership capacity to our already successful on-track programs and day-to-day production efficiencies."

Mike Kelley will remain with Carl Edwards as he seeks a second series championship in the past four years. Kelley was moved to the team for the final three races of 2009 and racked up one win, two top-fives and three top-10s.

"I am looking forward to my new responsibilities and challenges," Beam said. "It will be my task to make sure all of Roush Fenway's Nationwide teams are performing at a level to compete for the 2010 championship, as well as either Colin or Ricky winning the rookie of the year title.

"We certainly have the drivers, teams and support from the Ford Motor Company which will make our Nationwide entries capable of continuing Roush Fenway's success in the series."