Goodyear names Chris Helsel SVP Global Operations & CTO

A broadened remit for Christopher P. Helsel: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has announced he will succeed Jonathan Bellissimo as senior vice president, global operations following the latter’s retirement after a Goodyear career spanning four decades. Helsel will also continue as chief technology officer, a role he’s held for the past three years.

“Chris Helsel’s broad range of experiences leading product innovation, technology and product industrialisation make him ideal to lead Goodyear’s Global Operations and Technology organisation,” says Richard J. Kramer, chairman, chief executive officer and president. “In addition, his willingness to promote new thinking and challenge the status quo will serve our technology and manufacturing efforts well as we take Goodyear into the next stage of leadership in a hyper-competitive industry.

“At the same time, we deeply appreciate Jon’s vast contributions and leadership at Goodyear during his 43-year career. We all owe Jon a debt of gratitude for his relentless pursuit of quality, safety and results throughout his service to our company.”

Helsel, 55, joined Goodyear in 1996 and has served in his most recent role since 2017. During his career, he has worked in a variety of roles of increasing leadership responsibilities. He was previously director of technology programs at Goodyear’s Innovation Center in Luxembourg before serving as director, North America commercial and global off-highway technology at Goodyear.

As chief technology officer, Helsel led Goodyear’s technology and innovation development, especially in the growing area of new mobility. He earned his undergraduate degree in mechanical engineering from Cleveland State University and his Master’s in the same discipline from The University of Akron.