Centrotherm International AG Supervisory Board Resignations Signal New Shareholder Era

Two members of the supervisory board at centrotherm international AG have resigned effective December 17, 2025, in response to changes in the company's 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 has applied 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 emergence of a new main shareholder 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 governance at the German technology company. Robert M. Hartung expressed gratitude for the departing members' contributions, noting their expertise had been valuable during the company's realignment period.

Dr. Xinan Jia had been associated with centrotherm since 2006, holding various management positions in Asia before joining the supervisory board in 2018. Hans-Hasso Kersten, who served as deputy chairman and chaired the audit committee, had been with the company since early 2014. Their departures represent a substantial change in the oversight structure of a company that specializes in thermal production solutions and coating technologies for industries including semiconductors, microelectronics, and photovoltaics.

The governance changes at centrotherm matter because they reflect how shifting ownership patterns in the semiconductor equipment sector can influence corporate direction and strategy. As a company with more than 70 years of history and over 700 employees worldwide, centrotherm's board composition affects its approach to emerging markets like fiber and battery production. The involvement of the Ardian Semiconductor fund suggests potential strategic realignment toward semiconductor industry priorities, which could impact the company's research partnerships and competitive positioning.

For investors and industry observers, these supervisory board changes signal how private equity influence through funds like Ardian is reshaping governance in the technology manufacturing sector. The court appointment process for new members adds a layer of regulatory oversight to what might otherwise be a straightforward shareholder transition. The company's focus on "GREEN | SMART | EFFICIENT" solutions indicates how environmental and efficiency considerations are becoming integrated into semiconductor production technologies, with board composition potentially influencing these strategic priorities. More information about the company is available at https://www.centrotherm.de.