"The dealers and our distribution partners are our critical customers," says Jonathan Rich, who will take over as president of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.'s North American Tire operations on Dec. 1.
During the transition between presidents, Rich and outgoing President John Polhemus will visit dealers in tandem.
Rich, as president of Goodyear Chemical, helped turn around the division in just two years by restructuring its operations, increasing earnings and cash flow, and expanding the business into new high-growth markets.
He says he hopes do more of the same with the tire division.
"We're going to pursue new and exciting products we hope will help our customers to grow and Goodyear to grow."
Rich joined Goodyear in 2000 after 18 years at General Electric. He has a background in product development.
