Hoosier Racing Tire gains a new president

As of 1 January, Jörg Burfien has succeeded John DeSalle as president of Hoosier Racing Tire. This role within the 2016-acquired company is the third US-based assignment that Burfien has taken on since joining Continental in 1998.

Prior to taking responsibility for Hoosier, Burfien spent eight years as head of global Standards and Regulations for Continental’s Tire division. Other previous roles within the company include as key account executive in Germany between June 2010 and January 2012 and as director of research and development for Continental Tire in North America from March 2006 to June 2010. This latter role brought Burfien into contact with Hoosier through a partnership with Continental that commenced in October 2009.

Commenting on Burfien’s appointment, Dr Jochen Etzel, chief executive officer of Continental Tire the Americas and Hoosier Racing Tire Corporation, said: “Not only does Jörg bring the technical expertise and leadership qualities required to lead Hoosier into their next chapter, but he also has a good understanding of the tyre market from the variety of positions he’s held over the years. Whether working in product development, R&D, or as a key account manager directly with our customers, Jörg’s industry knowledge, and passion for technology and racing presents the perfect combination to lead a technical-driven organisation such as Hoosier.”

“I am very much looking forward to joining the Hoosier team and being part of one of the largest racing tyre organisations in the world,” said Burfien, president of Hoosier. “I’ve had the privilege of working with Hoosier in 2009, and then again during my role as the key account executive for Continental’s car dealer business in Europe. Having a history with Hoosier and clear understanding of what drives the organisation is a great starting point for taking on this new role. The Hoosier team has a great spirit, and I look forward to working together during this exciting time in our industry as technology continues to take the art of racing tyre development to another level.”

John DeSalle, who was appointed president of Hoosier Racing Tire in October 2016 following the business’s acquisition by Continental, announced his retirement last November.