Don Byrd is the new president and CEO of TBC Corp, effective May 1. He replaces Sam Kato, who will return to Sumitomo Corporation of Americas, one of TBC’s shareholders.
TBC officials say that Byrd’s appointment “by the TBC board of directors to president and chief executive officer is a natural transition for TBC and follows a strategic plan developed in collaboration with Kato.”
“Don Byrd has worked hand-in-hand with Sam and the other members of TBC’s executive leadership team to build out the company’s current winning strategy,” says Kei Kubota, TBC Corporation board member.
“TBC is well-positioned for continued growth, and we look forward to collaborating with Don to help propel the company to even greater heights. We are grateful for Sam’s exceptional leadership and dedication to TBC’s transformation, particularly over the past year, while serving as the company’s president and CEO.”
Byrd joined TBC in April 2018 as executive vice president, TBC, and president and chief operating officer of National Tire Wholesale.
He was soon named president of TBC purchasing and assumed additional responsibilities as chief marketing and strategy officer.
Prior to joining TBC, Byrd served as the chief operating officer and president of Tire Centers Incorporated LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Michelin North America Inc.
Before TBC and Michelin, he spent 19 years at Procter & Gamble in various marketing and operations roles.
“We appreciate Sam’s contributions to TBC and wish him continued success,” says Byrd. “Under Sam’s leadership, we built a strong foundation for the company, poised for growth. As CEO, I will continue to execute on this strategic vision.
“We are laser-focused on providing best-in-class solutions in the mobility and automotive industry and strengthening our wholesale and distribution and franchise businesses and keeping our stakeholders moving on the road ahead.”
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed these past three years, where I’ve had the privilege of working alongside a dynamic team here at TBC,” says Kato. “I’m proud of the work we’ve accomplished together, and I’m confident Don will continue to drive TBC forward and build upon our success.”
