Centrotherm international AG has announced the resignation of two supervisory board members, Hans-Hasso Kersten and Dr. Xinan Jia, effective December 17, 2025. These departures follow changes to the company's shareholder structure. The chairman of the supervisory board, Robert M. Hartung, will retain his position.
The company's management board has applied to the Ulm Local Court for the appointment of two new supervisory board members, with replacements expected in January 2026. The new main shareholder, controlled by the Ardian Semiconductor fund, will be represented by two members on the supervisory board moving forward. This shift in governance reflects the influence of the new ownership.
Robert M. Hartung expressed gratitude for the departing members' contributions, stating they provided valuable expertise during the company's realignment. Dr. Xinan Jia, associated with centrotherm since 2006 and a supervisory board member since 2018, brought management experience from Asia. Hans-Hasso Kersten, who joined in 2014, served as deputy chairman and chaired the audit committee.
Centrotherm international AG specializes in thermal production solutions and coating technologies, serving sectors including semiconductors, microelectronics, photovoltaics, fiber, and battery production. The company, with over 70 years of history and more than 700 employees worldwide, focuses on developing innovative, efficient production concepts. Its website, https://www.centrotherm.de, provides further corporate information.
For business and technology leaders, this board restructuring underscores how investment funds like Ardian Semiconductor are actively shaping governance in key industrial technology firms. The changes may influence centrotherm's strategic direction, particularly in growth areas such as semiconductor and battery production, potentially affecting competitive dynamics in the thermal solutions market. The appointments expected in January will be closely watched for signals about the company's future priorities under its new shareholder influence.
