China hand is Goodyear’s new Asia chief

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company has appointed Daniel L. Smytka, as president of the company’s Asia-Pacific business. Smytka, 49, assumes the role after running Goodyear's Asia consumer business and subsequently leading the relocation and expansion of its factory in China.

He succeeds Pierre Cohade, who has decided to leave Goodyear but will stay with Goodyear through the end of the year to assist with the transition. Richard J. Kramer, Goodyear’s Chairman, President and CEO said, “Success in the Asia Pacific region, especially in China, is critical to reaching our long-term goals.” Smytka joined Goodyear in 2008 as vice president of the consumer tyre business in the company’s Asia Pacific region. He also worked earlier with General Electric spending three years in China as president of GE's consumer and industrial business for the Asia Pacific region.