Toyo Promotes Masaharu Yoshimoto to Senior Corporate Officer

Toyo Tire & Rubber Co., Ltd has promoted its US president, Masaharu Yoshimoto, to the position of senior corporate officer beginning 1 April 2008. Currently a corporate officer for the company, Mr. Yoshimoto is both president and CEO of Toyo Tire USA Corp. (TTC), a position he has held with the Cypress, California-based company since July 2005.

Mr. Yoshimoto joined Toyo Tire & Rubber in April 1972. During his tenure with the company, he has worked in several world markets including the United States, twice, and Australia, where he became MD and CEO of Toyo Tyre & Rubber Australia Limited in June 2001. He served in that position until his appointment as senior vice president of TTC in February 2005.

“Masaharu Yoshimoto is a 36-year veteran of Toyo with extensive experience including his current position as leader of Toyo Tire U.S.A., our largest overseas market,” said Shozo “Carlos” Kibata, executive corporate officer, Toyo Tire & Rubber/president and CEO, Toyo Tire Holdings of Americas Inc. “His promotion to senior corporate officer will help to further guide the Toyo brand as it continues to expand worldwide.”

Under Mr Yoshimoto’s direction, TTC has continued to experience double-digit sales increases now spanning six of the last seven years, according to a company statement.