Bridgestone India appoints Hiroshi Yoshizane as MD

Pune- Bridgestone India, a division of Bridgestone Corporation, has named Hiroshi Yoshizane as its new Managing Director, succeeding Stefano Sanchini, who will transition to the role of Vice President of Consumer Replacement for Europe.

Yoshizane came to his new position from Bridgestone Japan, where he held various leadership roles. His most recent position was as Executive Vice President of Solution Business, Retail, and Service Business at Bridgestone Tire Solution Japan Co., Ltd.

This announcement coincides with Bridgestone Corporation's recent global reorganization, merging Bridgestone East and West. India will now be under the East division, forming BSAPIC as one Strategic Business Unit – Asia Pacific, India, and China. This reorganization recognizes the similar consumer sentiments across these regions and aims to leverage Bridgestone's synergies for further market development.

Hiroshi Yoshizane, Managing Director of Bridgestone India, said "India presents a strategic and growing market for Bridgestone, offering unique opportunities and challenges as the automotive sector advances both in terms of volume and technology. I am excited to collaborate with our partners and the Bridgestone team to serve our customers, vehicle manufacturers, and communities at large".

Stefano Sanchini, reflecting on his time as Managing Director since January 2023, expressed gratitude for the enriching experience in India's diverse and complex market. He anticipates that the insights gained during his tenure will benefit him in his new role. Sanchini acknowledged the support from the Bridgestone team and business partners, expressing confidence in seizing every opportunity in 2024.

Under Sanchini's leadership, Bridgestone India achieved significant milestones, including the production of its hundredth million tires at the Indore plant and the validation of the Pune plant as carbon neutral.