Hideo ‘Hank’ Hara formerly chief technology officer (CTO) for Bridgestone Americas is to return to Bridgestone Japan (BSJ) to assume the role of Bridgestone fellow. Here he will serve as an advisor to the company and work with various communications functions to represent Bridgestone’s technology position and narrative across key markets.
Hara first relocated from BSJ to BSA in 1992 as an engineering manager. He returned to Japan after six years but was reassigned to the Americas for a five-year tour of duty beginning in 2001 (as divisional VP of technology planning). His third, and current assignment brought him back to BSA as CTO in 2010, a role that required him to work closely with all of BSA’s research and technology operations, the majority of which are located in Akron.
“Hank’s energy, commitment and infectious good humor along with his knowledge, creativity and innovative approach to technology and product development, have been an extraordinary asset to BSA,” said Gary Garfield, CEO and president, BSA. “While we will miss his day-to-day presence here, we are excited for him as he embarks on this new career path.”
March 19, 2015
