Bridgestone India, part of the Bridgestone Corporation, has announced the appointment of Hiroshi Yoshizane as Managing Director. Yoshizane will succeed Stefano Sanchini, who will be appointed as the Vice President of Consumer Replacement for Europe.

Yoshizane moves to his new role from Bridgestone Japan where he has served in various leadership positions. He last served as Executive Vice President of Solution Business, Retail and Service Business in Bridgestone Tire Solution Japan Co., Ltd.

This development follows Bridgestone Corporation’s recent announcement regarding global reorganisation of Bridgestone East and West. India will be reassigned under East forming BSAPIC as one SBU – Asia Pacific, India and China, considering that these geographies represent similar consumer sentiments and Bridgestone’s synergies can be channelised to
develop these markets further.

“India is a strategic, evolving and growing market for Bridgestone, with a unique set of opportunities and challenges, as the country’s automotive sector is poised for major advances both in terms of numbers and technology. I look forward to working with our partners and the Bridgestone team to serve our customers, vehicle manufacturers and the communities at large,” said Hiroshi Yoshizane.

“My India tenure has been very fulfilling and a great learning experience as the diversity and complexities of the Indian market are unique to the country. I am sure that these learnings will hold me in good stead in my new assignment. I thank the Bridgestone team and business partners for the warmth and support extended, and I’m certain we are geared to optimise every opportunity in 2024.” said Stefano Sanchini.

Sanchini assumed the role of Managing Director in January 2023. During his tenure
the company recorded some memorable milestones such as the
production of the hundredth million tyre at its Indore plant, verification of the Pune plant being carbon neutral.