NASHVILLE, Tenn. (June 6, 2013) ― Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations has realigned its technology, manufacturing and procurement divisions into an integrated unit designed to deliver on the company's brand promise more effectively.
Steve Shelton, vice president, product development since November 2012, was named senior vice president, technology, manufacturing and procurement, tasked with overseeing manufacturing and procurement in addition to his duties as head of manufacturing.
He will be based in Nashville and will continue to oversee tire development and race tire production in Akron, Bridgestone said.
"As we aim to enhance our culture of high performance and establish our company as the undisputed leader in our industries, it is critical that we continually evaluate our operations to ensure we are delivering products and services that meet the needs and exceed the expectations of our many customers and end-users," said Eduardo Minardi, chairman, CEO and president of Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations.
Mr. Minardi said he is confident this new organizational structure will foster increased collaboration under Mr. Shelton's "strong and visionary leadership."
The realignment will be effective July 1.
Bridgestone did not specify any other personnel changes the realignment might initiate nor say who reports to Mr. Shelton under the new structure.
Mr. Shelton has 20-year tenure with Bridgestone Americas. His duties have included a stint at the company's Wilson, N.C., plant, process engineering development and strategic marketing support to the consumer tire business in the product/process areas.