PTNA Replaces Chairman and CEO

Kevin Riddett has left Pirelli Tire North America, where he served as chairman and CEO, replaced by former Goodyear executive Hugh Pace. Most recently, Pace was vice president and managing director of Smithers Group subsidiary Smithers Rapra Ltd. Pace will assume his duties effective June 4, according to PTNA. Riddett was with Pirelli for 10 years, and left to “embark on new professional challenges,” according to the company.

From Tire Review

ROME, GA — Kevin Riddett has left Pirelli Tire North America, where he served as chairman and CEO, replaced by former Goodyear executive Hugh Pace. Most recently, Pace was vice president and managing director of Smithers Group subsidiary Smithers Rapra Ltd.

Pace will assume his duties effective June 4, according to PTNA. Riddett was with Pirelli for 10 years, and left to “embark on new professional challenges,” according to the company.

According to PTNA, Guy Mannino, president, remains in place, as does its top management team.

“Mr. Pace’s international experience is a major plus for our company’s growth strategies in North America,” said Francesco Gori, CEO of Pirelli Tyre SpA.

Pace began his career with Goodyear in sales and marketing, and held several senior executive posts, including the presidencies of the Asia Pacific Region, Mexico and Argentina.

Separately, Smithers Group named James Downey, formerly director of tire uniformity machinery for Kobelco Stewart Bolling Inc., to replace Pace.