Jim Bounds, who most recently served as general manager of American Tire Distributors Inc.'s Orlando, Fla., distribution center, has announced his retirement after 50 years in the tire industry.
Bounds began his career in the tire industry in 1954 with Lee Tire and Rubber Co. handling tire adjustments and managing inventory. He eventually moved into sales.
He left Lee in 1962 to join Gates Rubber Co. as regional sales manager. He joined the Jim Martin Tire Co., based in Orlando, in 1974 as vice president of the wholesale division.
In 1989, Jim Martin Tire was purchased by ITCO Tire Co., which was, in turn, eventually acquired by American Tire Distributors (ATD).
"For 50 years, I have been fortunate to learn from and work with the best in the business, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together to make this industry what it is today," says Bounds.
ATD has begun a search to replace Bounds, who will continue to serve the company during the transition. "Finding a general manager with as much passion for this industry will be difficult for this company," says Dick Johnson, ATD's chairman and CEO.
