HANOVER, Germany (Nov.7, 2016) — Continental A.G. has promoted 20-year company veteran Kurt Lehmann to corporate technology officer (CTO), a newly created position that formulates the company's long-term technological strategy.
This appointment makes Mr. Lehmann the central contact for customers and business partners on strategic technological and innovation matters, according to Elmar Degenhart, chairman of Conti's executive board.
The CTO position is focused on technology-trend scouting and on the future-related fields of automation, electrification, connectivity and new mobility services, Conti said.
The role will also involve exploring possibilities offered by artificial intelligence and new wireless technology across all business units, including new equipment or robotics for future products.
Other tasks include further developing R&D processes, methods, and instruments in relation to embedded software and coordinating the ongoing optimization of Conti's global R&D network.
Mr. Lehmann, 54, began his career at Continental in 1986 working in development in Auburn Hills, Mich. He has been Continental's senior vice president, corporate systems and technology since Jan. 1.