Yokohama steps up a gear with two key new hires as part of the ongoing investment in its dynamic team. Industry heavyweights, Chris Downard and Luke Emery boast 50 years combined experience of working with major tyre brands and retailers, bringing further focus and strength to Yokohama’s UK operations.
As Business Development Managers working with and growing key accounts, the pair will form a vital part of Yokohama UK’s strategy to continue the growth of its UK business.
Chris and Luke’s appointment follows the appointments of CEO, Peter Fairlie, and Commercial Director, Karl Naylor, within the last 12 months, as well as other key roles. Alongside the senior management team, Chris and Luke will focus on key accounts, including wholesalers, retailers and fast-fit centres, with a particular emphasis on Yokohama’s flagship ADVAN and Geolandar all-terrain tyre ranges.
Chris Downard has more than 20 years’ experience in the tyre industry, with a history of strategic key account management. Chris spent 10 years working with Goodyear, before joining Newark-based Tanvic Group as Group Sales Manager.
Commenting on his appointment, Chris said: “I’m delighted to be able to bring my experience of national key account management and market knowledge to Yokohama. It’s a great opportunity to work alongside Peter, Karl and the team with the shared vision of working closely with our customers to develop the Yokohama brand.”
Luke Emery has been involved in the tyre industry for the last 22 years in a range of capacities and having worked in various sales and business development roles, previously at Yokohama plus Kumho and Micheldever Group, he now joins the Yokohama sales force for the second time.
On re-joining Yokohama, Luke said: “I’m excited to be back at Yokohama. With its recent restructuring, there’s never been a better opportunity. The team has a clear direction and route to market, with fantastic people and a huge range of quality products. When the opportunity arose, it was something I simply couldn’t look away from.”
Peter Fairlie, CEO, Yokohama UK, said: “With Chris and Luke joining the team, we’re better placed than ever to achieve our ambitious growth targets. Their huge experience in the UK tyre industry means we’re better equipped than ever to work closely with our retail and wholesale partners around the country. We have an incredibly high-quality product range, which is now complemented by having what I believe to be one of the best teams in the business too.”
