John C. Orr, president and CEO of Myers Industries Inc., plans to retire as a company officer effective Dec. 31. The board of directors of Akron-based Myers has engaged DHR International Inc. to conduct a search for Mr. Orr's successor. The company said the announcement "guarantees adequate time to find the optimal candidate who has the skills to continue the success" of the firm, noting that Mr. Orr will work with the board "to select the best qualified successor and to ensure an orderly transition of the management of the company."