TBC Corp. has named Sam Kato its new president and CEO. He replaces Laurent Bourrut, who is retiring.
A 30-plus year automotive industry veteran, Kato most recently served as TBC's chief administrative officer for the last two years.
Kato served as a director of TBC's board from 2015 until 2018, "when he was leading Sumitomo Corporation of Americas transportation businesses," note TBC officials.
"Kato was an instrumental part of the Sumitomo leadership team that formed a strategic 50/50 joint venture with Michelin North America Inc. in 2018 to create the current TBC Corporation. As TBC’s first chief administrative officer, Kato maintained responsibility for legal and compliance, human resources, IT, digital, corporate strategy and communications."
TBC Board Member Scott Clark says, “We are grateful for Laurent’s leadership and vision during his tenure at TBC. We wish him well in his retirement and believe that the foundation he established for the company is in fact a launch pad for the future of TBC. Sam Kato has been helping steer TBC throughout this period and we look forward to working with him to deliver our strategic objectives.”
Bourrut, who was named president and CEO of TBC two years ago, will remain an executive advisor to Kato and TBC.
“The entire TBC team has worked hard to position the company for sustainable growth," says Bourrut." I am humbled to have been part of developing the vision and I could not be more pleased that Sam will lead the team forward in implementing our strategic plan. The road ahead is prosperous for TBC.”
“I am forever grateful for the time I had working alongside Laurent," says Kato. "We wish him happiness in his well-deserved retirement. I know he will be proud of all TBC will accomplish as we execute our vision and evolve and transform the company to realize our purpose – to keep our associates, partners (and) customers moving on the road ahead. Laurent and I believe that this company can be the leader in every segment it serves.”
