Triangle Tire USA has selected Franklin, Tenn., for its North American headquarters – and has tapped tire industry veteran Manny Cicero to serve as its CEO.

Weihei, China-based Triangle Tire held a ribbon-cutting in nearby Brentwood, Tenn., on Monday. Cicero, in addition to Triangle executive chairman Gustavo Lima, spoke at the event.

“We chose Williamson County to be the place where Triangle Tire is planting a seed,” Lima said. “For us as a business, there’s a wonderful experienced pool of tire industry leaders available at all levels. Williamson County is a beautiful place to live, and we have really received the kindness and warmth of people here.”

Triangle chairman Ding Yuhua and Franklin mayor Ken Moore also were present, as well as Williamson County Chamber of Commerce president Matt Largen.

“We are very proud that Triangle Tire chose us and continues to expand our presence in the international market,” Moore said. “We want to continue not only the quality of life that we have here, but the number of jobs that we have in Williamson County.”

Cicero, a former Bridgestone Americas executive turned industry consultant, played a key role in Franklin landing Triangle’s headquarters, according to local reports, which stated he sees the Franklin corporate staff increasing to as many as 20 employees over the next year.

Triangle Tire USA staff will establish sales and marketing, including developing U.S. distribution channels and servicing tire dealers. The Franklin office will work along with Triangle’s R&D center in Akron, Ohio.

Founded in 1976, Triangle Tire is the 14th largest tiremaker in the world and distributes products to more than 130 countries.