The National Tyre Distributors Association (NTDA) has named Ian Andrew as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Stefan Hay, who will step down in July after a transition period. With nearly two decades of experience in association leadership, Ian joins the NTDA from his most recent role as CEO of the Derby-based British Pest Control Association (BPCA).

Prior to leading BPCA, Ian served as Governance and Partnerships Director at the Beech Centre in East Yorkshire, where he played a pivotal role in securing government approval to establish the new Institute for Organisational Development. His career also includes significant positions at the Chartered Management Institute (CMI), where he held roles such as Head of Membership Engagement, Head of Business Development and CMI’s Manager for Scotland. Additionally, he has held senior positions at the Scottish Qualifications Authority and the Hotel and Catering Industry Training Board.

Ian brings a wealth of expertise in membership organizations, business development, training, qualifications, and governance. He will officially assume his role at the NTDA in June, where his experience is expected to drive strategic growth and strengthen stakeholder relationships. Ian has a Bachelor of Divinity from Edinburgh University, a postgraduate degree in hotel administration and an MA in history and international relations from Aberdeen University. Among his accomplishments are his certification as a management consultant and performance coach. Throughout his career, Ian has been a steadfast supporter of improving professional standards and has a wealth of lobbying and high-level representation experience with Westminster and the devolved administrations.

Martin O’Brien, NTDA National Chairman, said, “We are delighted to welcome Ian as CEO. He joins us with the NTDA in its strongest position for many years, with a healthy, engaged membership and a reputation for proactive leadership on the key issues facing the UK tyre trade. We are looking forward to working with him to maintain and grow our influence in the industry and beyond.”

Ian said,“I am delighted to be joining NTDA at such an exciting time. Stefan Hay moved the association on considerably during his time leading it. My intention is to work closely with members and key partners to ensure that, as a sector, we continue to develop confidence and trust in NTDA members for the professional management of tyres, ensuring we develop better qualified tyre technicians and promote their expertise alongside the highest levels of motorist and tyre safety.”

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Kolkata-based Himadri Speciality Chemical has announced that its flagship plant in Mahistikry, Haripal, Hooghly, has received ISCC PLUS (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification).

The company has been recognised for its ecological and social responsibility, along with compliance with stringent criteria on greenhouse gas emission reduction, ecosystem protection, social accountability and complete traceability of raw materials.

Anurag Choudhary, CMD & CEO, Himadri Speciality Chemical, said, “Achieving ISCC PLUS certification marks a defining step in Himadri’s sustainability journey. It validates our determination to integrate renewable, low- carbon, and circular solutions into every layer of our operations. As global industries shift towards sustainable value chains, Himadri is leading this transformation—delivering innovative and responsible solutions that create long-term value for society, the environment, and our stakeholders worldwide.”

With this recognition, the company joins a number of global players who are driving systemic change towards responsible sourcing and production.

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George Varughese, founder of General Rubbers and the man behind the iconic Midas brand of tyre retreading materials, passed away on 28^th August, 2025.

Varughese established General Rubbers in 1969, building Midas into India’s most recognised name in retreading materials. Under his leadership, the company has grown into a global player, supplying more than 24,000 tonnes of tread rubber, precured tread rubber and other products annually. Today, Midas serves customers across South America, Africa, Europe and Australia.

Known for his vision and emphasis on innovation, Varughese placed research and development at the heart of Midas’s success. His commitment to improving compound formulations with the latest technology ensured the brand’s reputation for durability and reliability.

With operations centred in Kottayam, Kerala, Midas continues to expand its dealer network, reflecting Varughese’s lifelong mission of accessibility and customer service.

Varughese leaves behind a lasting legacy in India’s tyre industry, remembered as a pioneer who transformed the retreading sector into a global business.

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Vaculug has named Nick Hermitage as Operations Manager – OTR South, following a significant expansion in its OTR Division.

The company's new OTR Centre of Excellence in the South East will serve as Hermitage's headquarters. He is in charge of making sure the depot runs smoothly, which includes daily administration, logistics, foam filling and tyre pressing. Hermitage brings with him a depth of experience, knowledge and skill – accumulated over 22 years in the tyre industry.

Alan Robin, National Account Manager – OTR, Vaculug Technologies Ltd, said, "This is an incredibly exciting time at Vaculug, and we are fortunate to welcome Nick to the OTR team. His extensive experience and deep knowledge of both OTR and solid tyre operations will be instrumental as we build on our significant investments in the division. I am confident Nick will make a strong contribution to our growth and I wish him every success in his new role."

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Hankook Tire Europe GmbH has appointed Richard Bezzant as the new Marketing Director Truck and Bus with effect from 1 August 2025.

The British-born marketing and sales expert started his career with Michelin in UK in 2003. He brings with him more than two decades of experience in the tyre business for buses and trucks. Following a five-year period in leadership roles in France, he most recently served as Marketing Director for UK and Ireland, where he was responsible for developing and managing the complete marketing strategy across all business divisions.

Bezzant said, “My goal is to support growth opportunities for Hankook in the European truck and bus sector and expand them further. I am confident that we will be able to build on what has been achieved so far and continue to expand the business with innovative products and services. I am glad to be working with a great team to pursue our goals.”

Jang Hyuk Moon, Vice President – Marketing Department, Hankook Tire Europe, said, “With Richard Bezzant, we have appointed an industry-leading expert for our truck and bus marketing activities. With his decades of experience, we will consistently expand our business in the commercial vehicle sector and strengthen our market position in Europe in the long term.”

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