Williamson takes helm at BATO Wilson plant

July 18, 2011

Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations LLC (BATO) has promoted Gary Williamson, formerly Operations Manager at the BATO Aiken County, S.C., facility, to the position of Plant Manager at the Wilson, N.C. facility. Williamson’s successor in the Operations Manager role will be announced at a later date.

Williamson replaces Jim Pridgen, previous Plant Manager of the BATO Wilson, N.C., facility, who has been named President, Firestone Fibers & Textiles Co. LLC (FSFT). He will be based at FSFT’s headquarters in Kings Mountain, N.C.

BATO says Williamson’s 31 years of experience in a variety of tire manufacturing operations – the last five in Aiken County – ideally position him to take on his new role as Plant Manager of the Wilson facility.

“While we know Gary will be missed in Aiken County, we look forward to welcoming him to the Wilson team,” says Barry Owens, vice president, Manufacturing, BATO. “He brings a unique blend of both technical and leadership abilities that will be instrumental in addressing the complex challenges associated with the Wilson operation and recent capital investments.”