GKN Automotive reshuffles leadership pack

GKN Automotive has announced four appointments to its executive team, including a new CEO.

Markus Bannert, previously President of Driveline at GKN Automotive, has stepped into the role of CEO, replacing Liam Butterworth who has moved into a new role as CEO of Dowlais Group plc.

Meanwhile, as part of a recent move by GKN Automotive to create two new functional arms of the business – operations and engineering – Dr Dirk Kesselgruber has been appointed chief technology officer.

Further, Sean Bannon will join the company as chief financial officer and Piyush Upadhyay was recently appointed chief human resources officer.

Bannert said: “GKN Automotive is an incredible company with a rich history in developing leading technologies, building scale and operational excellence, and maintaining strong customer relationships with most global OEMs. Having spent over four years embedded in the business, I have been impressed by its capabilities as an engineering powerhouse at the forefront of innovation.

“Now is a truly exciting time for the business as we leverage our global leadership in driveline products and build on our capability to develop and deliver eDrive systems and components. We already have a comprehensive product portfolio that has evolved for electric platforms, as well as a strong R&D footprint that has enabled us to be a pioneer in the eDrive market for over 20 years, so I’m delighted to take on the role of CEO, working alongside our accomplished Executive team to continue our electrification journey.”