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SRNA Announces Series Of Executive Promotions

RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA – Sumitomo Rubber North America (SRNA), a Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd. subsidiary comprising both Falken Tires and Dunlop Motorcycle Tires, is proud to announce the promotions of four well-respected employees into new positions reflecting their important contributions to the tire brand.
 
First and foremost, President and CEO Richard Smallwood announced this week that Darren Thomas will become Senior Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, moving from his position of Senior Vice President of Sales & Marketing. Thomas, whom Smallwood first hired in 1995, has served in multiple Sales, Marketing, and Business Development roles for SRNA, doing so with a highly regarded “aggressive and analytical style.”
 
“With the significant changes I foresee in the tire industry’s near future, SRNA needs an aggressive, high energy, market-wise leader like Darren shaping the customer-facing aspects of our business so that we can best serve our Customers,” Smallwood said.
 
Returning to oversee the Marketing Department is Rick Brennan, another long-standing industry veteran. Brennan most recently ran SRNA’s Strategic Planning operations, which Smallwood claims “has been largely responsible for the level of growth we have experienced over the past few years.” He will again take on the critical role of Vice President of Marketing while continuing to manage all Strategic Planning activities.
 
Taking over as Vice President of 4 Wheel Sales is Matt Leeper, a 22-year Falken Tires veteran, who will be transitioning from his position as Director of Consumer Sales. Leeper, who will take on the responsibility for the entire four-wheel replacement business, was praised by Smallwood for his “strong Customer relationships, and unrivaled loyalty and commitment to the company.”
 
Last but not least, Smallwood announced that Toby Beiner has been promoted from Corporate Controller to Vice President of Finance. Beiner will take on the leadership role for SRNA’s Finance, Accounting, and Credit functions upon the retirement of Peter Buck, SRNA’s current Chief Financial Officer. Buck, who has been with the company for nearly 13 years, will retire on April 1, 2021, but will stay on in an advisory role through November 30th, 2021 to ensure a smooth transition.
 
“I congratulate my colleagues on their well-deserved promotions, as their hard work and result-oriented focus have helped SRNA become the highly successful company it is today,” said Smallwood in addressing all employees. “Along with my other senior staff, I believe Falken Tires and Dunlop Motorcycle Tires are well-positioned to continue outperforming the market, building valuable OE partnerships, and providing the exceptional service our customers deserve.”