Goodyear taps new CEO

AKRON, Ohio — Goodyear Tire & Rubber has named Richard Kramer as its new president and CEO, replacing Robert Keegan who will stay on as executive chairman of the board of directors.

Kramer was also elected a member of the company’s board of directors.

"Through Bob’s mentoring of Rich Kramer over the past nine years, the close partnership that developed as they jointly created the company’s strategy, and with Rich’s successful performance in several critical leadership roles, this decision is the logical and anticipated culmination of a well thought out succession plan," James C. Boland, Goodyear’s lead director.

Kramer, 46, who was named chief operating officer in June 2009, spent the previous three years successfully leading the company’s North American Tire business with a focus on customers and new product and process innovation.

Prior to his North America assignment, he spent three years as executive vice president and chief financial officer.

During his tenure at Goodyear, he was responsible for developing a comprehensive capital structure improvement plan; and integrating the Goodyear and Dunlop brands in Europe.