Discount Tire has promoted Dean Muglia from chief corporate officer to CEO, succeeding Michael Zuieback, who will retain the role of executive chairman. Muglia becomes the fifth chief executive in Discount Tire’s 60-year history.

Muglia’s career includes 31 years in leadership positions with Discount Tire. He was recruited by founder Bruce T. Halle to head the accounting department before working in store operations. In 2018, Muglia became chief corporate officer, appointed by Zuieback.

Discount Tire reports that, as CEO, Muglia will focus on overall company performance; the recruitment, retention and mentorship of Discount Tire leadership; and customer service.

In a Jan. 20 announcement, Zuieback said: “[Muglia] 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.”

Scottsdale, AZ-based Discount Tire is billed as the world’s largest independent retailer of tires and wheels. The company has over 1,000 stores across 35 states doing business under the trade names Discount Tire, America’s Tire and Discount Tire Direct.