Continental has named Nino Romano as the new Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of its Automotive Group sector, replacing Gilles Mabire, who left the company in November 2024. Romano, a veteran at Continental since 1993, steps into the role at a crucial time as the company prepares for significant structural changes.
Alongside this leadership shift, Continental has confirmed plans to list its automotive unit on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange by the end of 2025. Additionally, the company intends to make its Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) division, which supplies rubber products to automotive manufacturers, an independent entity.
These strategic changes signal a major transformation within Continental’s automotive division, aimed at increasing efficiency and value for customers and investors.
Romano has an extensive history with Continental, holding various research, development, and quality management roles over the past three decades. Notably, he led the electronic brake systems development in the Vehicle Dynamics business unit and has been a member of the Automotive Management Board since 2020.
As CTO, Romano will oversee the consolidation of technology and operations within the company. The quality division will now function as an independent entity under the Automotive Group sector.
Philipp von Hirschheydt, Continental executive board member and head of the Automotive Group sector, expressed confidence in Romano’s appointment, stating:
“With his extensive experience and expertise, Nino Romano is the ideal person to merge the key areas of technology and operations as CTO. This will not only create additional value for our customers and investors as we prepare for independence, but will also enable us to drive innovation even more efficiently and effectively.”
Continental’s leadership changes and restructuring come at a time when the company is addressing operational challenges.
Last month, Continental announced the closure of four plants and the downsizing of two others within its ContiTech division due to a drop in demand from key industries such as automotive and lignite mining.
These closures will affect approximately 580 employees and impact sites in Bad Blankenburg, Stolzenau, Moers, and the dual location of Frohburg and Geithain.
With Romano’s leadership, Continental is positioning itself for a more streamlined and independent future. The upcoming Frankfurt stock listing and OESL restructuring indicate the company’s commitment to long-term sustainability and operational efficiency.
Industry analysts will be watching closely to see how these changes impact Continental’s market position and financial performance in the coming years.
Who is Nino Romano?
Romano is Continental’s newly appointed Chief Technology Officer (CTO), taking over from Gilles Mabire, who left in November 2024.
What are Continental’s strategic plans?
The company plans to list its automotive unit on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange by the end of 2025 and restructure its Original Equipment Solutions (OESL) division into an independent entity.
How will Romano’s appointment impact Continental?
Romano will consolidate technology and operations, while the quality division will now function as an independent unit within the Automotive Group sector.
What plant closures has Continental announced?
Continental is shutting down four plants and downsizing two others due to a decline in demand, impacting approximately 580 employees.
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