
Harman Announces a Strategic Leadership Transition for Future Growth
Harman International, a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., has embarked on a significant leadership shift, naming Christian Sobottka as its new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Effective April 1, 2025, Sobottka, who previously served as President of the Automotive Division, succeeds Michael Mauser, who is stepping down after a remarkable 27-year tenure.
A Legacy of Leadership and Achievement
Michael Mauser has been at the helm of Harman during pivotal moments for the company, including its acquisition by Samsung in 2017. Under his leadership, the company flourished, achieving a revenue growth of $11 billion and establishing a remarkable backlog of $45 billion in awarded automotive business. Mauser's departure aligns with a well-considered succession planning process. He expressed pride in the company's achievements and confidence in his successor’s capability to steer Harman into its next chapter.
Christian Sobottka: A Vision for Transformation
Having over 25 years of experience in the international automotive industry, Sobottka is set to implement a broader, more software-centric vision at Harman. Since January 2021, he has spearheaded transformative initiatives within the automotive sector, focusing on enhancing in-cabin experiences and forming key partnerships. His experience at Robert Bosch, prior to joining Harman, equipped him with critical insights into automotive technologies, making him a fitting leader for this new phase.
The Future of Connected Automotive Experiences
Sobottka's leadership comes at a time when innovation in the automotive industry is paramount. The shift towards connected technologies, driven by consumer expectations for smart and seamless experiences, is transforming the landscape. Under his direction, Harman aims to deliver advanced solutions that not only meet but exceed these expectations, fostering a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving market.
Gratitude and Looking Forward
Young Sohn, Chairman of Harman's Board of Directors, highlighted Mauser's invaluable contributions and strategic vision that facilitated the company’s growth trajectory. As Sobottka prepares to take the reins, there is palpable anticipation regarding his potential to drive the organization towards a new era of innovation. His commitment to leveraging the talented teams at Harman to reinforce the company's legacy of excellence is evident in his statement, where he emphasized the goal of delivering exceptional value to customers and partners.
Why This Transition Matters to the Automotive Market
For dealership owners and automotive professionals, understanding Harman's leadership transition is critical. It signals a broader trend within the industry— the increasing importance of connected technologies and software in the vehicle experience. As Sobottka leads the charge in reimagining how these elements play a role in future automotive solutions, it presents opportunities for auto sales training and adaptation among dealership teams to align with these innovations.
As the automotive industry faces rapid change, staying informed about leadership moves and strategic directions within key companies like Harman enables automotive professionals to adapt their practices and embrace new technologies emerging in their field.
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