To replace Peter Snelling, who is retiring, Michelin Tyre plc have appointed Phil Baldock, as head of communications for their business in the UK and Ireland.
Taking an unconventional route to the world of automotive PR and communications, Baldock, a graduate of the University of Nottingham, initially worked as a Mining Engineer for British Coal, leaving in 1988 to work on the Channel Tunnel project with civil engineering firm Costain. He joined Michelin as a truck fleet Sales Representative in 1992, moving on to become a marketing and key account manager for the car product line in 1998.
Recent years have included 5 years as Commercial Director for Michelin’s earthmover and industrial division, followed in 2007 by three years as Distribution Development Manager, where he managed Michelin’s independent truck tyre dealer network. Since July 2010 he has been working as a Project Manager within the communications team, with direct responsibility for Michelin’s double centenary celebrations, held at London’s Michelin House during January 2011.
Talking about his new role which reports to Managing Director, Eric Le Corre, 51 year old Baldock says, “After 18 years in sales and marketing it is a privilege to be appointed Head of Communications. It is a very interesting time for the business as we are tackling major issues such as the rapid growth of the cold weather tyre market, plus preparing for the introduction of tyre labelling in 2012. These are major issues for the industry, and ones where communication is playing a key role; helping motorists to make more informed decisions when buying tyres. Additionally, Michelin remain by far the largest player in the UK tyre manufacturing industry, with production facilities in Ballymena, Dundee and Stoke. We’ve got strong growth ambitions for next five years, and I’m looking forward to being part of that success.”
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