Kenda USA has hired industry veteran Tom Williams as its new vice president of engineering.

Williams, who will split is time between Asia and Ohio, will assist with the company’s R&D. He first job will be to help expand R&D activity in Taiwan with the addition of a new R&D center, as well as develop an American R&D center based in Akron, Ohio.

“Kenda is looking to take the next step in the tire industry, and we’re excited about the hiring of Tom and the experience he brings. This is just step one of an aggressive short term goal to further the quality and value Kenda products bring to the market place,” said Jimmy Yang, Kenda president.

Williams comes to Kenda with more than 30 years of industry experience, working previously with Firestone, General and Hankook.