Robert (Bob) Lee will take over as the new CEO of Automotive Technologies Continental North America on January 1. He succeeds Samir Salman, who will retire after serving more than 27 years in the industry. Lee will also remain president of Continental North America with responsibility for leading customer, governmental and other external relationships across the region.
“Bob has exhibited exceptional leadership and innovative thinking throughout his career. We’re excited to see how he can help us build an even better future in North America,” the company said.
Lee first joined Continental in 2014 as the president and CEO of Continental Automotive Korea, where he led overall operations in the country. Lee is a leader with a proven record of success. Prior to joining Continental, he held various executive leadership positions in the automotive and technology industry. Among those, he served as the president and CEO of SK Continental E-motion, a joint venture global automotive battery system company formed by Continental and SK Innovation.
“It’s a special time for Continental as we build toward the future and continue to develop innovative, unique solutions in the technology space,” said Lee. “I’m thankful for the opportunity to learn alongside Samir whose knowledge and insight have been invaluable to me.”
Salman was appointed CEO of North America on June 1, 2008.
“Bob brings a diverse and deep business background that will be key in guiding our North America team in a rapidly changing industry. I have worked closely with Bob now for nearly two years and his fresh perspective will no doubt guide his leadership of the great team we have built here,” Salman said. “I have been fortunate to work with this team in North America for 14 years and it has been the highlight of my career.”
