AKRON, Ohio – Rockford "Rock" Tyson has been promoted to vice president of sales and marketing for Ken-Tool, a provider of specialty hand tools.

In his new role, Tyson will direct all domestic and international sales and marketing efforts for the Akron, Ohio-based company that has been in business nearly 90 years.
 
Previously director of marketing and sales, Tyson has been instrumental in strengthening the company’s position as a leading manufacturer and marketer of hand tools for commercial, truck and automotive tire service applications. 

Despite the lagging economy, Tyson’s leadership has led to significant growth in the company’s contract forging efforts. “Rock has been a key part of our success during the past three years, and we are thrilled to promote him to this important position,” said Doug Romstadt, Ken-Tool’s executive vice president and chief financial officer.
 
Tyson joined Ken-Tool as director of marketing and sales in 2007. He had previously held marketing positions with Stride Tool (Cleveland, Ohio) and Ridge Tool (Elyria, Ohio), and his experience includes marketing, sales and engineering positions with Michelin, Dunlop and BFGoodrich. 

Tyson received his MBA from Baldwin-Wallace College (Berea, Ohio) and his bachelors of science degree in mechanical engineering from Trine University (formerly Tri-State University) in Angola, Ind. 

He is a member of Sales and Marketing Executives International and carries their CME (Certified Marketing Executive) professional certification.