Apollo Tyres has appointed Dr. Seshu Bhagavathula as chief technology officer.

Bhagavathula will spearhead global initiatives on tire technology, research and new product development, for both passenger vehicle and commercial vehicle tires. He will be based out of the company’s global R&D center in Enschede, Netherlands.

“As we focus on the two key pillars of marketing and technology for the next phase of our growth, Dr. Seshu, with his vast experience, will bring in the much needed synergy across locations. He would also help us in providing intelligent automotive solutions to our customers,” said Neeraj Kanwar, vice chairman and managing director, Apollo Tyres.

Bhagavathula previously worked with Great Wall Motor Co. in China, where he served as the vice president of research and development. He’s also worked with Daimler AG at multiple locations.

Apollo Tyres has also inducted Dr. Seshu to its management board, the tiremaker said.