New CEO for CTNA, Gerstenberger Promoted

(Akron/Tire Review) Matthias Schönberg, managing director of Continental Tire of Mexico, has been named CEO of Continental Tire North America, effective Oct. 1. Alan Hippe, who had been president and CEO, will remain as president of CTNA. In addition, Andreas Gerstenberger, current vice president of sales and marketing, was promoted to executive vice president of sales and marketing at CTNA. As CEO, Schönberg, who has extensive international experience, will head CTNA’s supply chain, sales and marketing and production. He will report to Hippe, who as CFO and executive board member of parent Continental AG will continue to provide strategic direction to CTNA.

“This is an exciting time for CTNA as we turn the corner and focus on growing our company in North America with additional resources and expanded product lines,” said Hippe. “We are moving forward with new ideas and creative products while maintaining a consistent management team and approach. ”Matthias Schönberg has been a key part of our North American management team for the last several years and has a proven track record of success, and Andreas Gerstenberger has been instrumental in the growth of our replacement business in North America,” Hippe said. “Ultimately, this is about putting together a winning team that will make our strategic plan a reality. I believe the unique skills both these men bring to the table will provide us with the tools we need to achieve this goal.”