OSAKA, Japan (Jan. 5, 2014) — Toyo Tire & Rubber Co. Ltd. has made three executive appointments that affect its North American businesses, including the promotion of James Hawk and Don Bunn to chairman and president, respectively, of Toyo Tire North American Manufacturing Inc.
The third change is adding the title of general manager, North American Business unit at Toyo's tire business group headquarters, to President Takuji Yamamoto's duties. He also continues as representative director, group executive officer, tire business; chief risk management officer; and chief compliance management officer.
Mr. Yamamoto, 57, was named Toyo Tire president last October, succeeding Akira Nobuki, who was named chairman at that same time. Mr. Yamamoto has been with Toyo since 1980 and has held several executive positions within the company's tire business, including three years as general manager of the company's research and development division.
The general manager's position previously was held by Mr. Hawk, who also previously was president of Toyo Tire North America Manufacturing. He continues as senior corporate officer, chairman of Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc., and president of Toyo Tire North America OE Sales L.L.C.
Mr. Bunn previously was senior director, technical services, of Toyo Tire North America Manufacturing.
Toyo also promoted Hisanari Takai to general manager, DT Planning and Administration Department, DT Business Group Headquarters. He previously was general manager of DT Strategic Planning Department, corporate planning division.