Conti ‘doing the Baartman’ in Sumter

The inaugural plant manager of Continental’s still under construction Sumter plant in the US has been named. South African Craig Baartman, a 18-year Conti veteran, will be responsible for the factory’s overall leadership of the facility which, according to Continental Tire the Americas’ CEO Jochen Etzel, is scheduled to open in late 2013.

“We are excited to welcome Craig to his new role,” said Etzel. “His business acumen and extensive project management experience here in Sumter are strong assets, and we are confident in his leadership for this exciting project for CTA.”

Baartman has racked up 18 years in the global automotive, manufacturing and supplier industries, the last dozen at Continental. Prior to his appointment, Baartman served as director of manufacturing at Continental Tire the Americas. He also worked as an industrial engineer, area manager and production manager at the company’s plant in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Prior to joining Continental, Baartman held engineering and leadership positions with automotive suppliers in South Africa and the United Kingdom. Baartman earned his MBA from the University of Wales, Cardiff, and has a degree in industrial engineering from the former Port Elizabeth Technikon (now Nelson Mandela University).

“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with Continental for the past 12 years and am excited to lead the Sumter team as we embark on this new journey,” said Baartman.