Nokian Tyres announced it’s expanding its research and development capabilities to North America to better support the local market and serve its growing customer base in the U.S. and Canada. The new North America R&D unit will work closely with the Finland-led global team.
To lead the new initiative, Nokian Tyres promoted Marcus Hancock to senior manager of research and development in North America, effective Oct. 1.
“Marcus has deep technical knowledge that will help us serve dealers and drivers like never before,” said Nokian Tyres Senior Vice President Chris Ostrander. “He will help us continue strengthening our product portfolio in the U.S. and Canada by incorporating feedback from our customers and partnering with our global team.”
Hancock’s Experience
Hancock brings more than 35 years of experience as a tire design engineer, technical expert, and global leader. He began his career at Cooper Tire, advancing to general manager of Cooper’s European Technical Centre during his 19-year tenure.
Since July 2023, Hancock has served as quality manager at Nokian Tyres’ North American factory in Dayton, Tennessee. During his time there, the facility set production records manufacturing all-season and all-weather tires for American and Canadian markets.
Broader Nokian Tyres Growth Initiatives in North America
The expansion of North America R&D is part of the company’s larger growth strategy, it said. Recent moves include a nationwide partnership with ATD and the hiring of Ostrander and Vice President of Sales Matt Leeper.
Nokian Tyres has also introduced several North America-exclusive products. These include the all-season Nokian Tyres One, the all-terrain Outpost Family, and the all-weather Remedy WRG5. Each latest-generation tire features puncture-resistant Aramid fibers and comes with a Pothole Protection warranty.
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