WIXOM, Mich. — NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc. has announced the promotions of Kazuhiro Tsuzuki to executive vice president, Richard Sullivan to senior vice president, Bob Pepper to senior vice president, Michael Schwab to senior vice president and Kent Howard to vice president. Their respective promotions became effective Aug. 1.
Tsuzuki, a 32-year veteran, started his career with NGK in 1979. He held various positions for Ceramic Package sales in Japan, Europe and the U.S., as well as production control for Organic IC Package in Japan. He previously served as executive coordinator, Manufacturing. In his new role, Tsuzuki will support NGK U.S.A. President and CEO Norihiko Adachi, with respect to maintaining NGK Japan’s global manufacturing viewpoint.
Sullivan, a 33-year veteran in the aftermarket, has been with NGK since 1985 and previously served as chief administrative officer and vice president. Prior to that, Sullivan held various roles within the Aftermarket Department, including general manager and vice president. In his new role, Sullivan will continue to oversee corporate administration, including human resources, information technology and purchasing and facilities administration. He will also lead the sales efforts for NTK Cutting Tools.
Pepper, a 37-year veteran in automotive parts manufacturing, has been with NGK since 2007, and previously served as vice president of manufacturing. Pepper is responsible for all of NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc.’s manufacturing, along with OEM and OES logistics.
Schwab, a 22-year veteran in the aftermarket, has been with NGK since 1989 and previously served as VP of aftermarket sales and marketing. Prior to that, he served as director of sales and marketing for North America, and earlier, general manager. Schwab will oversee all aftermarket logistics, as well as continue to oversee aftermarket sales and marketing.
Howard, having served more than 10 years with NGK, was previously the director of OEM sales and engineering. Prior to that, Howard was general manager of OEM sales and an account manager for OEM sales. His responsibilities now include overseeing all OEM sales and engineering.
