Goodyear Appoints New Corporate Controller and CIO

Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced the appointment of Richard Noechel as vice president and corporate controller, replacing Thomas A. Connell, who in turn was named vice president and chief information officer. Noechel, 39, had been chief financial officer of Goodyear’s South Pacific Tyre subsidiary in Australia since 2006. He began his career with Goodyear in 2004, serving as assistant controller at the company’s corporate headquarters in Akron.

Prior to joining Goodyear, Noechel was vice president and controller for The Kmart Corporation from 2001 through 2004. He also worked for DaimlerChrysler in various positions from 1997 through 2001 and for Price Waterhouse LLP from 1991 through 1997.

Connell, 59, had been vice president and controller for Goodyear since 2003. Prior to that, he spent 24 years in financial management positions with TRW Inc. Connell, joined TRW in 1979 as manager of financial accounting. He was named director of financial reporting in 1983; finance director and controller, valve division in 1986; and finance director and controller, engine components in 1987. He became vice president of finance, occupant restraint systems in 1990 and was named vice president and corporate controller in 1996.

Connell replaces Stephanie A. Wernet, who has been chief information officer since 2003. An announcement is expected soon regarding Wernet’s new position.