Michelin Tyre Plc has appointed John Howe as managing director for the UK and Ireland, effective 1 January 2022.

John Howe, managing director for the UK and Ireland at Michelin Tyre Plc

He replaces Chris Smith, who recently moved to Michelin’s international headquarters in Clermont-Ferrand, France, to take over the role of global marketing director long distance transportation.

Howe will also hold the role of B2C sales director, with responsibility for the company’s car, motorcycle and bicycle markets.

He brings 25 years of service within the company, having begun his career in the warehouse of Solideal UK, before continuing with the business through a series of acquisitions, first by Solideal International, Camoplast, Camso and then finally Michelin in 2018.

Howe brings experience in the tyre industry at all levels, having initially worked as a warehouse operative and mobile service technician, before becoming an area sales manager and later general manager for Solideal International. His background at Camso also includes roles as commercial director, UK managing director, and finally original equipment aftermarket director for the EMEA region.

Since February 2020 he has worked directly within Michelin, first as global program manager within the agriculture, construction and materials handling markets and most recently as global business development & corporate account manager for these same three sectors.

Howe said: “I’m excited about the opportunity to evolve the business here in the UK & Ireland, whilst also respecting the legacy of Michelin. The market is getting more dynamic all the time, and I want to ensure Michelin remains a true pioneer – with, around and beyond tyres.”