Shake-up in Goodyear finance department

Thomas A. Connell is to join Goodyear from TRW as vice president and controller reporting to Stephanie W. Bergeron, senior vice president, corporate financial operations. He is joined by Michael M. Rajkovic, vice president of finance for its North American Tire business unit. He will report to Robert W. Tieken, executive vice president and chief financial officer, and to Jonathan D. Rich, president, North American Tire.

Rajkovic replaces Richard J. Kramer, who was named senior vice president, strategic planning & restructuring by the company. Kramer moves on to become senior vice president, strategic planning & restructuring for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.

“Richard has been active in driving change in our organisation and is recognised as an outstanding leader,” said Robert J. Keegan, chairman and chief executive officer, to whom Kramer will report in his new position. “His experience, plus his deep knowledge of our company, makes him a valuable addition to our corporate leadership team as we build toward our 2005 objectives and turnaround.”