The Importance of Supplier Chiefs in the Automotive Industry
Suppliers are the often overlooked backbone of the automotive industry. Without them, it would be impossible to manufacture a car. In recent years, the importance of these suppliers has become even more pronounced as the sector faces challenges from the Covid-19 pandemic and geopolitical crises. In recognition of their influence, Autocar presents the Power List 100, sponsored by Keyloop, which celebrates the top supplier chiefs in the industry.
The Power List 100 includes influential figures from both traditional German giants like Bosch and Continental, as well as new global battery manufacturing leaders from China such as CATL. These supplier chiefs have an enormous impact on the car industry and play a crucial role in shaping its future.
One of the notable supplier chiefs on the list is Seetarama Kotagiri, CEO of Magna International. Magna is one of the industry’s largest manufacturers, responsible for building vehicle bodies, powertrains, seating systems, and more. In addition to components, Magna also manufactures high-ticket cars like the Mercedes-Benz G-Class and BMW Z4. Kotagiri, with over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, has been instrumental in Magna’s success.
Yoonho Choi, CEO of Samsung SDI, is another supplier chief making waves in the industry. Samsung SDI is one of the most important battery manufacturers, with partnerships with General Motors and Stellantis to electrify the North American car market. Choi has positioned Samsung SDI as a key player in the battery industry and is rumored to be readying production of cylindrical cells for BMW’s next-generation EVs.
Holger Klein, CEO of ZF Friedrichshafen, is leading the firm through a generational transformation as it adapts to the shift towards electric vehicles. ZF, known for its high-quality gearboxes, is diversifying its business away from hardware production and embracing software solutions. Klein’s leadership has allowed ZF to stay ahead of the curve and collaborate with companies like Lotus on innovative projects.
Sung Hwan Cho, CEO of Hyundai Mobis, is driving the company’s ambition to be a leader in autonomous driving technology, connected cars, and electrification. Hyundai Mobis has unveiled several groundbreaking technologies, including in-wheel motors and a roll-out infotainment display. With Cho at the helm, Hyundai Mobis recorded impressive sales figures and solidified its position as the world’s sixth-largest automotive supplier.
Stefan Hartung, CEO of Robert Bosch, brings a wealth of experience to his role. Bosch is a global leader in technology and has set ambitious goals to reduce carbon emissions. Hartung’s leadership is crucial in navigating the complexities of a changing world and ensuring Bosch’s success in meeting its sustainability targets.
Koji Arima, president and CEO of Denso, has been instrumental in expanding the company’s presence across the globe. Denso, known for its automotive components, is now venturing into non-automotive fields like household energy-management systems. Arima’s commitment to reducing CO2 emissions throughout the supply chain is commendable and aligns with Denso’s sustainability goals.
Robin Zeng, chairman of CATL, is at the forefront of making transportation sustainable. CATL is the world’s largest supplier of lithium-ion cells and has a significant market share. Zeng’s vision and leadership have propelled CATL to become a major player in the industry in just 12 years.
Hak Cheol Shin, CEO of LG Chem, leads Korea’s largest chemicals company. Under his leadership, LG Chem has become Europe’s largest manufacturer of lithium-ion batteries. Shin’s expertise in the energy sector has been invaluable in driving LG Chem’s success.
Yuki Kusumi, CEO of Panasonic, recognizes the challenges posed by global warming and resource depletion. Kusumi’s future plan for Panasonic involves reducing carbon emissions across all sectors and accelerating technological innovations for customers’ well-being.
Patrick Koller, CEO of Forvia, oversees one of the world’s largest automotive suppliers. Koller’s expertise in sustainable mobility and development in Asia has led to the successful recovery and growth of the company. Forvia is committed to developing safe and sustainable mobility solutions for the future.
Nikolai Setzer, CEO of Continental, is guiding the company’s transformation into a technology and software company. Setzer’s deep understanding of Continental’s values and his experience within the company make him the ideal leader for this transition.
Christophe Perillat, CEO of Valeo, brings a wealth of experience to his role. Valeo is targeting significant revenue growth through its ‘Move Up’ plan, and Perillat’s leadership is crucial in achieving this goal.
The Power List 100 ranks the world’s most influential automotive heads based on various criteria, including global reach and influence, spending power, technological influence, and market capitalization. The list showcases the diversity and importance of supplier chiefs in shaping the automotive industry.
These supplier chiefs play a vital role in driving innovation, sustainability, and growth within the automotive industry. Their influence extends beyond individual companies and impacts the entire sector. As the industry continues to evolve, supplier chiefs will play an increasingly crucial role in shaping its future.