WIXOM, Mich. — NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc. announced the promotions of Kazuhiro Tsuzuki to executive vice president, Richard Sullivan to senior vice president, Bob Pepper to senior vice president, Michael Schwab to senior vice president and Kent Howard to vice president.

Tsuzuki, a 32-year veteran, started his career with NGK in 1979. He held various positions for Ceramic Package sales in Japan, Europe and the U.S., as well as production control for Organic IC Package in Japan. In his new role, Tsuzuki will support NGK U.S.A. President and CEO Norihiko Adachi, with respect to maintaining NGK Japan’s global manufacturing viewpoint. Sullivan, a 33-year veteran in the aftermarket, has been with NGK since 1985 and previously served as chief administrative officer and vice president. In his new role, Sullivan will continue to oversee corporate administration, including human resources, information technology and purchasing and facilities administration. He also will lead the sales efforts for NTK Cutting Tools.

Pepper, a 37-year veteran in automotive parts manufacturing, has been with NGK since 2007, and previously served as vice president of manufacturing. Pepper is responsible for all of NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc.’s manufacturing, along with OEM and OES logistics.

Schwab, a 22-year veteran in the aftermarket, has been with NGK since 1989 and previously served as VP of aftermarket sales and marketing. Schwab will oversee all aftermarket logistics, as well as continue to oversee aftermarket sales and marketing.

Howard, having served more than 10 years with NGK, was previously the director of OEM sales and engineering. His responsibilities now include overseeing all OEM sales and engineering.