Nicastro Promoted to Senior Bridgestone Americas Role

Following the announced retirement of Bridgestone Americas, Inc. (BSAM) chairman, CEO and president Mark Emkes, company vice president, general counsel, chief compliance officer and secretary Gary Garfield stepped up to the plate to take on the positions of CEO and president. Filling Garfield’s shoes in his former roles is Chris Nicastro, who is currently general counsel, Bridgestone Americas Latin American Operations, and corporate compliance officer, BSAM. Nicastro’s appointment in this new portfolio of positions takes effect March 1, 2010, and will involve him taking over responsibility for overseeing the company’s legal and compliance functions.

“Chris has proven his value and become a key player in the success of this company,” said predecessor Gary Garfield. “With his experience and robust skill sets, Chris is a qualified leader and we look forward to his future contributions to the Bridgestone Americas family.”

Before joining Bridgestone Americas in 2008, Nicastro gained eight years of experience in corporate compliance and ethics with Yasaki North America, Inc. and four years of experience in litigation with Marconi Data Systems, Inc. After receiving his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan Law School, Nicastro served as a law clerk in a US District Court. Nicastro also holds a bachelor’s degree in government.