Continental appoints Prashanth Doreswamy as head of India operations

German technology major Continental has named Prashanth Doreswamy as the new head of its operations in India. Doreswamy will take over as market head of Continental India and MD, Continental Automotive India, from October 2017. Doreswamy will succeed Claude d’Gama Rose, who retires later this year.

According to the company, the MD will continue to focus on driving revenue opportunities for Continental in the region and increasing its technology and product development capabilities in India. The German conglomerate that commenced India operations in 2008, has since established a strong presence in the domestic market with steady investments, localisation of the value chain and betting big on technology.

As of today, the Tier 1 automotive supplier, tyre manufacturer and industrial partner operates across India – with a strength of over 7,000 employees working across 16 locations, including nine plants that cater to the Indian market and a technical centre that supports its global R&D.

According to Frank Jourdan, member of the Executive Board, Continental AG and president of the Chassis & Safety Division, who is also Country Sponsor for India, “We are glad to have Prashanth Doreswamy joining us to lead Continental in India. With our firm commitment to the India market since 2008, Continental has grown steadily in India and I take this opportunity to thank Claude for his leadership. Continental will stay focused on building strong customer relationships, manufacturing excellence, localisation and building a strong talent base for strengthening local innovation.”

Congratulating his successor, Claude d’Gama Rose, said “I’m glad to welcome Prashanth Doreswamy as my successor. His experience, track record and value system are ideal to take Continental to the next level in India. The company will stay focused on technology innovation and manufacturing excellence to continue being a partner of choice to our customers.”

Commenting on his appointment, Prashanth Doreswamy said, “I’m honored to be named the leader of Continental India, at a time when the automotive industry is undergoing a transformation. Today the company is developing and producing trendsetting technologies that redefine mobility. The India entity is integral to this journey, and I look forward to working with our employees and industry partners in driving growth for Continental in the region.”

Doreswamy, previously has worked as country manager and MD - India & SEA, Cooper Standard India, and brings over two decades of experience to his new role, across automotive and manufacturing.