HARMAN Names Christian Sobottka as President and CEO

Christian Sobottka, President & CEO, HARMAN | Effective April 1・Photo Credit: HARMAN

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STAMFORD, Conn., March 3, 2025 (VSNewsNetwork.com) — Technology company HARMAN International has announced that Michael Mauser will step down as president and chief executive officer, effective March 31, 2025. The company’s board of directors has appointed Christian Sobottka, currently president of HARMAN’s Automotive Division, to succeed Mauser in both roles, effective April 1, 2025.

"After nearly three decades with HARMAN and aligned with our diligent succession planning process, I have decided to step away to spend more time with my family and explore new opportunities. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and confident in Christian's ability to lead HARMAN into its next chapter," said Mauser.

Michael Mauser, Current President & Chief Executive Officer, HARMAN・Photo Credit: HARMAN

Mauser joined HARMAN in 1997 and has held various executive roles across its divisions. He became president and CEO in 2020, leading the company through challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and semiconductor shortages. Prior to that, he played a role in HARMAN’s acquisition by Samsung in 2017. During his tenure, the company expanded its automotive and consumer technology offerings, increased revenue to $11 billion, and secured a $45 billion backlog in awarded automotive business.

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Sobottka, who has been with HARMAN since 2021, has more than 25 years of experience in the automotive industry. As president of HARMAN’s Automotive Division, he led efforts to shift the business toward a product- and software-centric model, advanced in-cabin technology solutions, and expanded industry partnerships. Before joining HARMAN, he held executive roles at Robert Bosch, focusing on automotive technology.

“I am honored to assume the role of president and CEO of HARMAN. Building on our legacy of innovation and excellence, I look forward to working with our talented teams to drive the next phase of growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers and partners,” said Sobottka.

“We extend our deepest gratitude to Michael for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to HARMAN’s success. His strategic vision has positioned the company for continued growth. We are confident that Christian’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal leader to guide HARMAN into the future,” said Young Sohn, chairman of HARMAN’s board of directors.

In addition to Sobottka’s appointment, Dave Rogers, president of HARMAN’s Lifestyle Division, will join the company’s board of directors.

For more information, visit www.harman.com.

Source: HARMAN