There’s a new head of OK Tire

OK Tire Stores Inc. announced that it has appointed Brian Mielko as its new president and chief executive officer.

The move is effective immediately. He was most recently with Sailun Tire, leading the sales and marketing teams responsible for delivering programs to TBC Corporation’s Big O and Midas channels. Mielko has spent more than 13 years in the tire industry, according to the announcement, creating strategic programs that accelerate client growth

OK Tire’s announcement highlighted Mielko’s experience and commitment to franchise-driven businesses, which makes “him ideally suited to lead OK Tire into its next chapter of growth and innovation.”

He has spent time with Coca-Cola and Unilever where, the announcement said, he developed retail programs for grocery clients and launched high-impact campaigns for Home Hardware.

“Brian’s deep understanding of franchise operations, supplier dynamics, and customer needs makes him a natural fit to lead OK Tire,” said a joint statement from the company’s board of directors. “We are thrilled to welcome him to the OK Tire team and look forward to the meaningful conversations ahead that will help shape the future of our organization.”

Board chair Shayne Casey filled in as interim CEO during the search. The company expressed gratitude for the role played in guiding the company, including the launch of its recently-announced strategic distribution partnership with Groupe Touchette.

“Brian’s leadership style and deep-rooted commitment to collaboration, community, respect, and accountability align perfectly with our culture and vision as OK Tire moves into its next chapter,” Casey said. “As we continue striving for excellence across our network, we are confident that his focus on building strong partnerships at both the local and national level will drive sustained growth and innovation, and we look forward to the exciting road ahead.”

OK Tire, which has 325 stores in Canada, also noted that the company aims to be the most trusted and recognized tire and auto service franchise brand in Canada for both commercial and passenger/light truck sectors under its new leader.

“It’s truly an honour to join such a trusted and iconic Canadian brand — one with a rich legacy, a passionate and entrepreneurial network, and a clear vision for the future,” Mielko said “I’m excited to work alongside the talented teams at OK Tire, our new distribution partner Groupe Touchette, our valued suppliers, and most importantly, our incredible dealer network. Together, we’ll continue to grow, innovate, and deliver exceptional service to communities across the country. Looking forward to the road ahead.”