Italy-headquartered RODOLFO COMERIO S.r.l., a leading supplier of advanced systems for calendering lines, has been appointed Nicola Simondo as its Sales Manager for the Plastics Division.

Simondo has held important roles at well-known firms, giving him a plethora of commercial knowledge. He will spearhead the sales team and worldwide commercial operations in the plastics sector in his new position, encouraging expansion and innovation in the years to come. This new development reflects the company’s commitment to ensuring effective leadership and to further consolidate its position in the market.

Cimcorp, a global leader in intralogistics solutions, has appointed Jarno Honkanen as VP of Solutions & Technology.

Honkanen brings with him a wealth of knowledge and a new perspective to the leadership team from his more than 20 years of experience with Cimcorp in solution management, sales and software development. Honkanen's leadership style is distinguished by his capacity to promote efficient communication and explain difficult ideas. He has a strong commitment to fostering cooperation and comprehending other points of view. Throughout his remarkable nearly 25-year career in automation, Honkanen has held key positions in the creation of cutting-edge automation solutions, including sophisticated robotic material handling systems and workflow optimisation for global clients.

He has 15 years of sales experience, which has given him a thorough understanding of automation and the demands and expectations of customers. Customers of Cimcorp will greatly benefit from this experience because the solutions created under his direction will be customised to satisfy their demands on a completely new level. His capacity to connect technology with customer-focused solutions guarantees that Cimcorp will always provide cutting-edge, useful and efficient automation systems that add genuine value.

Honkanen said, “Effective communication is about breaking down complexity without losing depth. I aim to create clarity and understanding in all interactions, whether with my team, customers or stakeholders. What excites me about this role is the opportunity to combine cutting-edge technology with customer-focused solutions. Cimcorp’s innovative spirit and dedication to excellence make this an incredible place to be.”

Veli-Matti Hakala, CEO, Cimcorp, said, “Jarno’s ability to simplify the complex and inspire collaboration is set to drive innovation and strengthen our position as a global leader in automation and logistics.”

Balkrishna Industries Ltd (BKT Tires) has appointed Anette Sklarz Justice as Head of Marketing at BKT USA.

Sklarz Justice, who will head BKT USA's Marketing and Communication Unit, will bring more than five years of marketing experience, mostly from the HVAC manufacturing sector, with an emphasis on an extended brand expansion plan. By creating customised communication strategies, establishing industry ties and increasing exposure through targeted marketing campaigns, her hiring is anticipated to boost BKT's market stance.

Sklarz Justice, a principal member of BKT USA's leadership team, will be in charge of press and media relations, organise the company's attendance at trade exhibitions and choose the best means of communication to showcase the technological innovations and dependability of BKT products. Sklarz Justice, who will work under Lucia Salmaso, Marketing Director of BKT Group, will play a crucial role in expanding BKT's target market and making sure that its goods are seen by important clients, business leaders and stakeholders via initiatives and top-notch content.

“I am thrilled to join the great BKT team, making my contribution to the growth of an ambitious company that looks toward the future without ever losing sight of traditional values. In my new role, I am happy to drive the company’s growth and success in the United States at such a dynamic time. My primary goal will be to establish stronger and longer-lasting relationships with journalists, customers, and local partners, as well as to support the team in exploring new opportunities for growth,” said Sklarz Justice.

Prometeon Tyre Group, a leading company in the development, production and marketing of tyres for the commercial, agricultural and OTR sectors, has appointed Steve Tift as its new MD for the UK and Eire.

Tift brings nine years of Prometeon expertise to the position, where he has been instrumental in building strong client connections and effective sales teams. Tift joined in 2016 as a Business Development Manager, and because of his commercial prowess, he was swiftly elevated to UK Sales Manager and, in January 2023, Sales Director. Tift has a clear and practical strategy for 2025 and is well aware of the cost difficulties that road transport operators face.

Tift said, “I am incredibly proud to be working for Prometeon, I love this company. I’ve been here for almost nine years, and developing and rebuilding successful sales teams has been my proudest achievement, along with the growth we’ve achieved in Ireland which has been unprecedented with our strategic partnerships. The year ahead will undoubtedly present challenges as we work to grow the Prometeon brand in a market facing significant cost and operational pressures. However, I am confident that opportunities exist across all segments. By offering long-term, sustainable solutions, we can provide our customers with the peace of mind they need – delivering reliability, performance and cost-effectiveness to support their operations.”

Iochpe-Maxion SA, a world leader in automotive wheels production and a leading producer of automotive structural components in the Americas, has appointed Pieter Klinkers, the current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Maxion Wheels, as President and CEO of Iochpe-Maxion SA with effect from 16 April 2025.

Klinkers replaces Marcos Oliveira, who will step down at the end of his term in line with the senior leadership succession plan. The Iochpe-Maxion Board of Directors has nominated Oliveira to be a member of the slate for the Board of Directors election at the upcoming regular general shareholders' meeting, which is also set for 16 April 2025.

Over the course of more than 30 years, Klinkers has built a prestigious career in the automotive sector. After a 10-year stint at Michelin, he joined Hayes Lemmerz Inc in 2005, which was later purchased by Iochpe-Maxion. He has been in charge of the company's worldwide wheels division since 2015. Klinkers will be replaced as CEO of Maxion Wheels by Mark Gerardts. Since joining the firm in 2015, Gerardts has held a number of positions with progressively more responsibility, most recently serving as the Business Unit President for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA).