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Continental AG, a leading technology company, has announced a significant strategic realignment by deciding to make its ContiTech group sector independent. This decision is part of a broader initiative to establish its three group sectors—Tires, ContiTech, and Automotive—as strong, independent entities. Alongside this restructuring, the company is adjusting its Executive Board, with Dr. Ariane Reinhart stepping down and Ulrike Hintze appointed as the new director of Labor Relations and Executive Board member for HR.
Key Highlights:
- Continental plans to make ContiTech independent, emphasizing its role as a material solutions specialist with an industrial focus.
- The company will evaluate transaction options and set a timeline for ContiTech’s independence, with a sale being the most likely scenario.
- Post-realignment, Continental AG will focus globally on tires after the Automotive spin-off and the sale of Original Equipment Solutions (OESL).
- CEO Nikolai Setzer highlights the creation of three independent entities to maximize growth and value.
- Executive Board updates: Dr. Ariane Reinhart will exit on June 30, 2025; Ulrike Hintze will assume her roles on July 1, 2025.
- ContiTech’s independence is slated for 2026, following the Automotive spin-off and OESL sale.
The move to separate ContiTech aligns with Continental’s strategy to unleash the potential of its three group sectors. Each—Automotive, Tires, and ContiTech—has grown into a formidable player in its field. Independence will enable them to respond swiftly to market changes and seize growth prospects. The company will now assess transaction forms for ContiTech, likely culminating in a sale by 2026, after the Automotive spin-off and OESL divestiture.
Leadership transitions accompany this shift. Dr. Ariane Reinhart, currently overseeing HR and Sustainability, will leave her post on June 30, 2025. Ulrike Hintze will step in as director of Labor Relations and HR Executive Board member on July 1, 2025, while retaining her HR role in the Tires sector. CEO Nikolai Setzer will take on Sustainability duties alongside his responsibilities in IT and Communications.
Setzer emphasized the vision, stating, “We are creating three strong, independent champions that will achieve their full growth and value creation potential as independent companies.” He remains committed to steering Continental through this transformative phase.
The group sectors each bring unique strengths. Automotive excels in electronic and mobility solutions, leading in sensor technology, brake systems, and software for autonomous vehicles. Tires offers a global tire portfolio, tapping into sustainability and electric mobility trends. ContiTech focuses on material solutions for industries like mining and off-highway mobility, with plans to carve out its OESL business.
This realignment aims to sharpen focus, boost agility, and enhance value across Continental’s diverse segments, positioning them for success in their markets.
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