Michelin names new UK MD

Michelin Tyre has appointed John Howe as managing director for the UK & Ireland.

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

Howe brings 25 years of service to 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.

Since February 2020 he has worked directly within Michelin, spending his first 18 months as global program manager within the agriculture, construction and materials handling markets, where he was responsible for helping the 10 regions globally Go to Market in the most effective way. Most recently he has been global business development and corporate account manager for these same three sectors, heading a team responsible for Michelin’s largest international key accounts.

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.”

Howe will be based in Stoke-on-Trent and replaces Chris Smith, who recently moved to Michelin’s international headquarters in Clermont-Ferrand, France.