Bridgestone/Firestone hires Akey to man new government affairs office

March 22, 2001

Bridgestone/Firestone Inc. (BFS) named Steven Akey vice president, government affairs for its newly created Washington, D.C., office.

Akey has a strong background in the transportation industry. He has been involved in the development and implementation of government relations strategies for major transportation corporations, trade associations and government agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration.

Akey was senior vice president and director of the Transportation Policy Group for Edelman Public Relations Worldwide prior to his appointment by BFS.

He also has served as senior strategist and chief spokesperson for the U.S. Secretary of Transportation, for whom he managed a 23-person staff and coordinated 10 subcabinet public affairs offices for the $40 billion department.

“This is part of our ongoing commitment to continue an open dialogue with members of Congress, the Administration, government agencies and other organizations," says John Lampe, chairman, CEO and president of BFS. "Steven's expertise in transportation bridges both private and public sectors making him particularly well-suited to help lead this endeavor.”

Akey will direct federal and state government relations from the office beginning April 16. He will report to Christine Karbowiak, vice president, public affairs.