NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Bridgestone announced today that is has appointed Chris Ripani as the new president of Speedco, an indirect subsidiary of Bridgestone.

Ripani succeeds Scott Damon who recently was named president of Firestone Industrial Products.

In his new position, Ripani will lead implementation of the newly formed growth strategy for Speedco.

“Chris has proven himself as a dynamic leader in the commercial business,” said Kurt Danielson, president, US and Canada Commercial Tire Sales. “He has the knowledge and leadership skills that will help take the Speedco business to the next level and his leadership will further drive growth for the commercial division of Bridgestone.”

Ripani started his career with Bridgestone back in 2001 as a territory sales manager for Bridgestone Commercial Solutions. Shortly after, he assumed positions as channel marketing manager; director of marketing, communications and services; and director of marketing, strategic brands and channels. Mostly recently, he was the executive director of marketing, Bridgestone Commercial Stores Division.