Bridgestone names Robert Johnson North America group president

Bridgestone announced two executive appointments in its West region, effective May 1, 2026, according to a company press release.

Robert Johnson has been appointed Group President for North America, assuming leadership of North America Core Tire operations and full profit and loss accountability for the region. Johnson previously served as Chief Financial Officer for Bridgestone West since May 2024.

Wade Sempkowski will succeed Johnson as West Chief Financial Officer. Sempkowski joined Bridgestone Americas in 2019 as Director of FP&A and most recently served as Vice President of Finance for Bridgestone Americas since 2022.

The company said it is decoupling the roles of West CEO and Group President, North America to provide increased clarity and focus. Scott Damon will continue as West CEO.

"Robert and Wade are experienced leaders with a strong understanding of our business, our customers and the priorities ahead," said Damon.

Johnson joined Bridgestone in 2016 as Executive Director of Finance for Bridgestone Retail Operations. He held various finance and operations roles before becoming West CFO. Prior to Bridgestone, he worked at Advance Auto Parts, Best Buy and Lifepoint Health. Johnson holds a bachelor's degree in finance and information systems from Belmont University and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas.

Sempkowski has also served on the Board of Directors for TireHub since 2022. Before joining Bridgestone, he held roles at Mars Petcare and Southern Land Company. He earned his bachelor's degree from the University of Tennessee and his MBA from Vanderbilt University.

Bridgestone Americas is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Bridgestone Corporation (Tokyo: 5108), headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee, and employs more than 45,000 people worldwide.

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