PALM BEACH GARDENS, Fla.—TBC Corp. has hired longtime Michelin executive Bill Schafer to be its chief operating officer.
Schafer, who spent 30 years with Michelin—a TBC shareholder—will oversee all TBC brands and TBC international sales initiatives, the company said, including customer service, commercial tire sales, equipment and non-tire sales and operations.
He will report to Sam Kato, president and CEO of TBC, an automotive replacement tire wholesaler and franchise operator, since May 2023.
"We're committed to delivering a best-in-class experience for our customers with the right products, consistent and reliable service, and ease of doing business. Bill is the right person to help us deliver on this commitment," Kato said.
Schafer held various roles during his tenure at Michelin, most recently as vice president of original equipment and aftermarket, Michelin Beyond Road Business Line.
Schafer directed all business-to-business sales, distribution and operations activities for Michelin's North America region and led a team of more than 600 as vice president of North America B2B sales.
Prior to that, Schafer was vice president of North America commercial sales, playing a crucial role in sales and market share, TBC said, "achieving remarkable success in the commercial truck division's turnaround."
"Bill's extensive background in commercial sales, operations, and strategic management, coupled with his impressive track record in successfully navigating diverse markets and leading teams to success, perfectly positions him to help drive sustainable growth for TBC Brands and TBC International," Kato said.
Schafer graduated from Brigham Young University and holds master's degree in business administration.
