Goodyear names Richard Kramer COO

The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. Board of Directors has elected Richard J. Kramer chief operating officer. Kramer will report directly to chairman & CEO Robert J. Keegan, the company said.

"Rich's appointment as chief operating officer reflects our game plan of having a laser focus on operations globally during these extraordinary times," Keegan said. "It also reflects the confidence that the Board and I have in Rich's overall business leadership capability. Rich brings enormous credibility and respect from all key constituents, our associates, our customers and Wall Street."

Kramer will continue on in his role as president of the company's North American Tire business unit, which he has held since March 2007, unit until a successor is named.