Two members of the Supervisory Board of centrotherm international AG have resigned effective December 17, 2025, in the wake of a new shareholder structure. Hans-Hasso Kersten and Dr. Xinan Jia stepped down from their positions, while Chairman Robert M. Hartung will remain on the board. The company's Management Board will immediately apply to the Ulm Local Court for the appointment of two new Supervisory Board members, with replacements expected in January 2026.
The resignations are directly linked to the arrival of a new main shareholder, which is controlled by the Ardian Semiconductor fund. This shareholder will be represented by two members on the Supervisory Board moving forward, marking a significant shift in the company's governance. Robert M. Hartung expressed gratitude on behalf of both boards, stating, "On behalf of the Supervisory Board and the Management Board, I would like to thank the two departing members for their valuable cooperation over the past years. Both have made a significant contribution to supporting the Management Board with their expertise in the realignment of the company."
Dr. Xinan Jia had been associated with centrotherm since 2006, holding various management positions in Asia before his appointment to the Supervisory Board in 2018. Hans-Hasso Kersten, the previous Deputy Chairman, had been with the company since early 2014 and also served as Chairman of the Audit Committee. Their departures represent a loss of institutional knowledge and experience during a period of corporate realignment.
Centrotherm international AG specializes in thermal production solutions and coating technologies, serving growth sectors such as the semiconductor and microelectronics industry, photovoltaics, and emerging fields like fiber or battery production. The company, which has operated for more than 70 years, describes itself as a leading, globally active technology group working closely with partners from industry and research. More information about the company is available at https://www.centrotherm.de.
The management transition occurs as centrotherm positions itself in competitive technological markets. The appointment of new supervisory board members aligned with the Ardian Semiconductor fund suggests strategic direction may shift to emphasize semiconductor industry expertise. This governance change could influence future business decisions, partnerships, and innovation priorities as the company navigates evolving industrial landscapes.
