Effective March 1, Mr. Minardi will relocate to Brussels, Belgium, to become chairman of Bridgestone Europe (BSEU), while continuing to serve on the tire maker's board of directors. Mr. Minardi assumed his BSAM responsibilities in 2010 and added the European unit's executive chair accountabilities Jan. 1, 2014.
Gary Garfield, CEO and president of BSAM, said Mr. Minardi “has helped lead Bridgestone Americas through the most successful period in our company's history, and he will undoubtedly help do the same for BSEU. His industry knowledge, leadership skills and cross-cultural perspective will be a tremendous asset for our global company in the European market.
“While we will miss Eduardo's daily guidance and leadership, we are very happy to have his continuing support as a member of BSAM's board of directors and look forward to applauding his future success in Europe.”
Mr. Garfield called Mr. Knapp “smart, strategic and battle-tested,” noting the company is “fortunate and excited that his previous experience in leading operations for iconic consumer brands will continue to be an asset as we continue transforming our company and work to generate more value for consumers.”
Mr. Knapp has spent his career—both in the U.S. and internationally—in the consumer products area, “leading the operations of many of the world's foremost brands,” according to BSAM. Prior to joining the tire maker, he served as president, Family Care North Atlantic, Consumer Tissue Division for Kimberly Clark. He also has held leadership positions in the consumer products businesses for Pfizer Inc. and for Warner-Lambert Inc.
