Scottsdale-based Discount Tire announced the promotion of Dean Muglia to the role of chief executive officer.

Mr. Muglia served as the company’s chief corporate officer and succeeds Michael Zuieback, who will retain the role of executive chairman for the company, according to a press release.

Mr. Muglia’s career includes 31 years in leadership positions with Discount Tire. Founder Bruce T. Halle first recruited him to head the accounting department before working with store operations where he played a role in supporting the company’s overall performance and cultural integration during periods of steady company growth.

Mr. Muglia then assumed the position of chief corporate officer, which Mr. Zuieback appointed him to in 2018.

As CEO, Mr. Muglia will focus on overall company performance; the recruitment, retention and mentorship of Discount Tire leadership; and ensuring the tire retailer maintains and exceeds the high standards of service expected by its customers.

“Dean is the definition of a servant leader,” Mr. Zuieback said in a prepared statement.

“He is a critical thinker and clear communicator with an innate ability to develop real solutions that deliver results. Above all else, Dean is passionate about Discount Tire and our people. He truly embodies Mr. Halle’s five life lessons: be honest, work hard, have fun, be grateful and pay it forward.”

Mr. Muglia is the fifth CEO in Discount Tire’s 60-year history. What began as single tire store in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1960 grew to be the world’s largest independent retailer of tires and wheels, operating more than 1,000 company-owned stores in 35 states.

“I look forward to growing with the Discount Tire family and serving our employees and customers with the passion Mr. Halle instilled,” Mr. Muglia said in a prepared statement. “This company means everything to me --- I’m honored to help lead our remarkable organization to new heights.”