New president for Bridgestone’s North American retail operation

Joe Venezia is the new president of Bridgestone Retail Operations (BSRO), the subsidiary of Bridgestone Americas responsible for the company’s 2,200+ outlet tyre and automotive service network. He began in this role on 19 June and brings more than 20 years of consumer goods and retail experience to Bridgestone.

“In recent years, BSRO has developed and executed a singular focus on driving operational excellence and delivering a consistent, world-class customer experience across our retail store network,” said TJ Higgins, president, North America integrated consumer tyre group, Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations. “Joe’s diverse retail and operational background will help us build upon our progress in those critical areas.”

Before joining Bridgestone, Venezia most recently served as executive vice-president of global store operations at Toys”R”Us, Inc.; he joined the company in 2014 as senior vice president, store operations. Prior to Toys”R”Us, Venezia was senior vice-president of operations and head of stores for The Pantry, a convenience store chain in the southeastern US He also has held leadership positions with Walmart and Wells Fargo Merchant Services, and began his career as a brand manager at Procter & Gamble.