German Tier-1 major Continental Automotive has named Indian-origin Aruna Anand as the new president and CEO of the Group’s North American business. Anand will take charge in her new role on December 1, 2022. 

Anand will also continue to retain her current role as the Head of Architecture and Networking business wherein she is responsible for all global architecture and networking business activities that support customers based out of North America. 

A Masters in computer science engineering from Oakland University, Michigan (USA), alongside holding a B Tech degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Anna University, Chennai (India), Anand has over 25 years of working experience within Continental Automotive where she has held numerous leadership positions across different business areas of the Group. 

She was the head of software for Gasoline Engine and Transmissions Systems for the Electronic Controls business unit within the company’s then Powertrain division. Anand also led the Wireless Product Group Engineering within the Connected Car Networking business unit of Continental’s Vehicle Networking and Information business area.

Prior to being named as the head of Architecture and Networking, Anand was responsible for leading Continental Engineering Services — an independently operating business unit that offers comprehensive engineering services.

“Aruna brings an outstanding combination of experience and talent to the President and CEO Automotive North America position,” said Nikolai Setzer, CEO, Continental AG. “She is a respected leader and is a technical expert in many areas that are the focus of our future growth. Aruna’s dedication to our customers and our employees will help guide the success of Continental in the important North American market,” Setzer added.

“It is an honour to be selected as Automotive President and CEO for North America. I look forward to leading our talented team towards a bright future and providing our customers with leading technological solutions,” Anand said.