Mahle, the prominent automotive supplier, is undergoing a significant transformation with the aim of enhancing its operational efficiency and strategic focus. This restructuring is a pivotal step towards the implementation of its long-term strategy, Mahle 2030+, which is designed to pivot the company towards the advancing trends in electrification and thermal management.
Beginning on January 1, 2025, Mahle will consolidate its current five business units into three, with plans to merge four existing units into two new entities. This structural reorganisation is intended to streamline operations and bolster internal synergies. According to Arnd Franz, Chairman of the Group Management Board and CEO, “Mahle is doing its homework for the transformation,” proving that the changes are aimed at positioning the company for future mobility shifts and profitability. He further noted that this reorganisation will enhance internal cooperation and create new opportunities for locations connected to the internal combustion engine to contribute to burgeoning sectors.
Strategically, the former business units of "Engine Systems and Components" and "Electronics and Mechatronics" will be merged to form "Powertrain and Charging". This alteration aims to strengthen Mahle's electrification strategy by leveraging over a century of experience in engine systems, thus facilitating advancements in efficient electric motors and intelligent charging solutions.
The next significant merger will see the combination of the "Filtration and Engine Peripherals" and "Thermal Management" business units into a new entity called "Thermal and Fluid Systems". This integration is set to allow for enhanced competitive positioning in thermal management technologies, drawing on established production capabilities in filtration that Mahle has developed over the years. The acquisition of the remaining 25 percent stake in Mahle Behr GmbH & Co. KG also forms part of this growth strategy, with the complete takeover slated to take effect at the same time as the restructuring.
Additionally, Mahle plans to maintain its Aftermarket business unit, which will now be branded as "Lifecycle and Mobility", continuing to offer its established product lineup while exploring opportunities in electrification and digitalisation.
Accompanying these changes, Mahle will also reduce its Group Management Board from seven to four members as part of a drive to streamline decision-making and management processes. The members of the new board will include Arnd Franz, who will simultaneously handle the responsibilities of Human Resources, previously overseen by Dr. Beate Bungartz, who has stepped down.
Markus Kapaun will persist as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) while Jumana Al-Sibai will retain her position as a board member, now overseeing "Thermal and Fluid Systems." Georg Dietz will now lead the new "Powertrain and Charging" unit, and Martin Wellhoeffer will transition to the role of Chief Operating Officer for the "Thermal and Fluid Systems" business unit.
The changes have been acknowledged by Prof. Dr. Heinz K. Junker, Chairman of the Mahle Supervisory Board, who expressed gratitude for the contributions of the departing board members. He noted the significant achievements made under their leadership and wished them well in their future endeavours.
These strategic moves by Mahle are indicative of a broader trend within the automotive industry, as companies increasingly pivot towards adopting advanced technologies and adapting to the evolving landscape of electric mobility. As Mahle moves forward under this new structure, it aims to establish itself as a leader in providing innovative solutions within these key sectors.
Source: Noah Wire Services