OSAKA, Japan ( May 30, 2014) —Toyo Tire & Rubber Co. Ltd. has named Tomoshige “Tomo” Mizutani president of Toyo Tire U.S.A. Corp., effective July 1, in addition to his being president of Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc. and general manager of Toyo's Nitto brand.
Mr. Mizutani replaces Tatsuo Mitsuhata, who has been named general manager of Toyo's European business unit, president of Toyo Tire Europe G.m.b.H. and president of Toyo Tire Deutschland G.m.b.H., also effective July 1.
Toyo Tire Deutschland is a new subsidiary in Willich, Germany, announced April 28, to handle sales and service for customers in Germany and Austria.
Takashi Shimizu, current general manager for Toyo's Europe business unit, will continue in his other roles as general manager of the tire planning division and general manager, tire administration department, Toyo said.
Mr. Mitsuhata replaces Naoki Gonsui, who was named president of Toyo Tire Deutschland only a month ago. Toyo did not elaborate on Mr. Gonsui's departure.
Mr. Mizutani was promoted in October 2013.to president of Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas, which oversees Toyo's manufacturing, importing, sales and distribution efforts for the Toyo and Nitto brands in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
Mr. Mizutani also is a corporate officer of parent Toyo Tire & Rubber.