Mr. Kairys, who has headed the Big O organization within TBC since 2016, called Mr. Bull a “passionate leader who is knowledgeable, driven and dedicated. I could not think of a more suitable team member to lead this organization to continued success.”
Mr. Kairys is being promoted to vice president, TBC Parts & Service Group, overseeing non-tire purchasing initiatives. For the next several months, Mr Kairys will work alongside Andy Dudash, executive vice president, Parts & Equipment Buying Group, who plans to retire March 31 after a 19-year career with TBC.
Brant Wilson, president and chief operating officer of TBC Automotive Group, said Mr. Kairys has “done an exceptional job expanding the [Big O] brand’s geographic footprint, growing sales and partnering with franchisees” during his time leading the Big O business.
“He is a dynamic leader with a wealth of industry knowledge,” Wilson said. “While he may no longer be leading the Big O Tires team on a daily basis, the team and our extended team of franchisees will continue to thrive through our continued partnership with him as a leader on the TBC Purchasing Team.”
At the same time, TBC has promoted Greg Ortega to senior vice president and general manager of purchasing for the TBC Tire Group.
Since joining TBC in 1996, Mr. Ortega has been integral to the success of the TBC Purchasing Team, TBC said.
Over the last several years, Mr. Ortega’s leadership efforts have resulted in improved performance, streamlined operations and development opportunities for many TBC employees across all TBC business units spanning retail, franchise, wholesale, distribution and ecommerce, the company said.
“Greg’s appointment … reflects his solid business acumen, strong leadership skills and overall success at TBC through the years,” TBC President and CEO Erik Olsen said. “Greg has made significant contributions to TBC throughout his 24 year tenure with the organization and I look forward to continuing to work with him and celebrate his successes in his new role.”
In addition, TBC is promoting TBC Purchasing employees Patricia Del Aguila and Travis Cripe to senior directors, Retail Tire Programs & Services.
TBC noted Ms. Del Aguila’s “steadfast focus, strong work ethic and knowledge of product and the industry” since joining TBC in 2009 in announcing her promotion.
Mr. Cripe, who has been with TBC for 16 years, is recognized for his reliability, depth of knowledge and willingness to contribute to initiatives even if outside of his scope for the benefit of the team.
“Patricia and Travis are strong leaders whose contributions are recognized across all of TBC’s business units,” Mr. Olsen said. “Both are well deserving of this recognition for all of their efforts.”
