New Zealand’s most trusted tyre brand, Bridgestone, will see a change of leadership in 2025 with longstanding Director of New Zealand Business, John Staples, announcing his retirement after more than four decades with the company.

Mr Staples will be succeeded by Bridgestone Australia General Manager – Retail Operations, Jon Tamblyn, who commences in January ahead of Mr Staples’ final day at the end of March, bringing his distinguished 44-year career to a close.

According to Mr Staples, the timing was right for a changing of the guard as he reflected on his countless achievements in his tenure with Bridgestone.

"I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and support I've received throughout my career at Bridgestone. It's been an honour to lead our New Zealand business and to work with such dedicated teammates and loyal customers,” Mr Staples said.

“I have full confidence that 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." 

Mr Staples held numerous positions within 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 New Zealand’s history such as the merger of Firestone and Bridgestone, the development of the Firestone retail channel and further transformation to Bridgestone Select and Bridgestone Tyre Centres, the acquisition of Tony’s Tyre Service, and the successful integration of Bridgestone New Zealand’s operations with Bridgestone Australia.

Jon Tamblyn brings nearly two decades’ experience to the role when he starts in the new year, having started with Bridgestone as a graduate Mechanical Engineer back in 2007 in the role of Original Equipment Engineer. 

Mr Tamblyn appreciates the big shoes he has to fill and looks forward to building on the legacy of Mr Staples to amplify the business in New Zealand to even greater heights.

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

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

From his initial role as Original Equipment Engineer, Mr Tamblyn advanced through the business in varying roles including Group Technical Field Service Manager (Australia and New Zealand) and National Commercial and Solution Business Manager Australia. Since 2022, he has held his current role of General Manager, Retail Operations Australia.

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

“John Staples has been a significant contributor to the New Zealand business, 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,” Mr Barclay said. 

“Throughout his years with Bridgestone, Jon has showcased his versatility, leadership, drive and dedication. He has keen understanding of the business and 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,” Mr Barclay added.