All change at Bridgestone

Bridgestone will see a change of leadership in 2025 with John Staples, longstanding director of the New Zealand tyre business, announcing his retirement after more than four decades with the company.

He will be succeeded by Bridgestone Australia’s general manager of retail operations, Jon Tamblyn, who starts in January ahead of Staples’ final day at the end of March, bringing his 44-year career to a close.

According to Staples, pictured above, the timing’s right for a changing of the guard. He says: “I’m deeply grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve received throughout my career at Bridgestone. 

“It has been an honour to lead our New Zealand business, and work with such dedicated teammates and loyal customers.

“I have full confidence Jon Tamblyn will continue to drive the business forward with the same passion and commitment that has always been at the heart of the Bridgestone New Zealand team."

Staples held numerous positions in the business since his journey began in 1981. He quickly rose through the ranks, holding pivotal roles in retread management, store management and field sales prior to entering the New Zealand head office as commercial products manager in 1995.

He continued to show leadership through significant milestones in Bridgestone NZ’s history, such as the merger of Firestone and Bridgestone, developing the Firestone retail channel, further transformation to Bridgestone Select and Bridgestone Tyre Centres, the acquisition of Tony’s Tyre Service and integrating Bridgestone NZ’s operations with Bridgestone Australia.

Tamblyn, pictured below, brings nearly two decades’ experience to the role. He started with Bridgestone as a graduate mechanical engineer in 2007 in the role of original equipment engineer.

He realises he has big shoes to fill and is looking forward to building on Staples’ legacy to amplify the business in New Zealand to greater heights.

“It’s a wonderful honour to be given the opportunity to lead the Bridgestone business in New Zealand,” says Tamblyn. “I’m looking forward to building on the incredible work John contributed throughout his notable career.

“His strategic vision and unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction have left an indelible mark on the business and broader industry. My intention is to continue to strengthen Bridgestone’s market-leading reputation through the next era of the business.”

From his initial role as an original equipment engineer, Tamblyn advanced through the business in varying roles. These included group technical field-service manager for Australia and New Zealand, and national commercial and solution business manager for Australia. Since 2022, he has held the role of general manager of retail operations for Australia.

Heath Barclay, managing director of Bridgestone Australia & New Zealand, says Tamblyn’s proven track record of innovation and leadership, combined with his wealth of experience, makes him the ideal successor to Staples.

“John Staples has been a significant contributor to the New Zealand business,” adds Barclay. “It was never going to be a simple feat to replace him, but Jon Tamblyn brings the ideal mix of knowledge, passion and innovation to the role.

“Throughout his years with Bridgestone, Jon has showcased his versatility, leadership, drive and dedication. He has keen understanding of the business. His experience and knowledge across multiple areas of the company make him well-prepared to lead Bridgestone in New Zealand.

“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to John Staples for his unquestionable contribution to Bridgestone throughout his career and wish him all the best for his well-deserved retirement.”

Roger Saliba will move into the role of general manager of retail operations in Australia.