Richard Smallwood, president of Falken Tire Corp., has announced the retirement of veteran Sales Vice President Bruce Ware, who has served the tiremaker for 11 years, and has been a part of the tire industry for more than 30 years.

“Bruce’s dedication to always doing the best job possible has consistently contributed to Falken’s success throughout the years,” Smallwood wrote in a personal note to all Falken personnel. “His accomplishments for more than a decade as head of sales have enabled Falken to achieve immense growth. And while I’m happy Bruce will be able to spend more time at home with his family and enjoy what he has worked so hard for all his life, I am also sad to lose him as a valued part of the Falken team.”

In response to Ware’s retirement, Smallwood announced that current Vice President of Marketing Andrew Hoit will move into Ware’s position. Smallwood noted that “Andrew’s aggressive attitude should prove invaluable in moving Falken’s sales to new heights” and that Hoit has significant experience in the tire business, including managing a national salesforce.

With Hoit stepping over from marketing to sales, the former role will move to Rick Brennan, Falken’s current executive director of product strategy.

All changes are effective Monday, April 14. The company noted that Ware will continue with Falken through June 30, supporting Smallwood on several strategic projects.