Goodyear merges, East, West European business units

ERJ staff report (DS)

Akron, Ohio -- Goodyear has created a new business unit which encompasses all the activities of the former regions of European Union (EU) and Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (EEMEA). Arthur de Bok will head the new unit, following the retirement of Jarro Kaplan, former head of the EEMEA unit.

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 $6500 million (Euro 4430 million). The change becomes effective on 1 Feb 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 Michel Rzonzef, formerly vice president sales and marketing, EEMEA, as president of the EEMEA countries. Rzonzef will report to de Bok, formerly president, EU, who was named president of the new strategic business unit.

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Press release from Goodyear