Dec 11 2007
The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced the formation of a new strategic business unit, combining the former regions of European Union (EU) and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (EEMEA).
The new region of Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) will be Goodyear's largest in terms of geography and second largest, after North America, in terms of annual sales revenue. Annual combined sales revenue for the two regions in 2006 was $6.5 billion. The change becomes effective February 1, 2008.
Goodyear Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert J. Keegan, said: "While the two former regions are different in terms of approach to the market there are also many similarities which are increasing, especially with the introduction of the new EU member states. This new organization is structured to accelerate growth and maximize earnings through simplicity, speed and an intense focus on our customers and markets."
Keegan announced the appointment of Arthur de Bok, formerly president, EU, as the president of the new SBU. De Bok will report to Keegan. In addition he announced the appointment of Michel Rzonzef, formerly vice president sales and marketing, EEMEA, as president of the EEMEA countries. Rzonzef will report to de Bok.
Keegan also announced the retirement, for family reasons, of Jarro Kaplan, president, EEMEA, after a career spanning more than 38 years. He praised the contribution of Kaplan who had joined the region in 2001 and had steered the business unit to outstanding increases in turnover and profit. "Jarro has been one of the most successful business leaders in our company's history," Keegan said. "We will miss his contributions and wish him all the best in the next era of his life."
De Bok was appointed to his position in September 2005, having joined the company after a 13 year career with Procter & Gamble. De Bok has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in law from Erasmus University in the Netherlands. Keegan said: "Since becoming president of the EU organization, Arthur has led a successful market driven approach to our businesses and has simplified the organization. His proven leadership capabilities will be invaluable as he leads this newly integrated business into the future."
Rzonzef was appointed to his current position in December 2002. He received a degree in electro-mechanical engineering from Liege University in Belgium in 1987 and joined Goodyear Luxembourg shortly afterwards. After positions in the Goodyear Technical Center he held various roles in sales and marketing before becoming general manager in central Europe in 2001.
De Bok said: "Michel has been one of the driving forces behind the success of the EEMEA region and has been responsible for the tremendous growth of the business. His knowledge, people skills and experience will be invaluable as we integrate our businesses focusing intensely on our customers and our markets."
Keegan said: "I have seen both Arthur and Michel develop rapidly over these past few years into outstanding businessmen and leaders. I am confident the new opportunities for both will continue their personal and professional development ."