Interview with Sabrina Soussan
Sabrina Soussan (56) took over as chair of the Supervisory Board of Continental AG on April 30, 2026. At its constituent meeting immediately following the 2026 Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, the Supervisory Board unanimously elected her as its chair. The interview was conducted by Vincent Charles, head of Group Communications at Continental.
Ms. Soussan, congratulations on your election as chair of Continental’s Supervisory Board. What does this appointment mean to you?
Thank you. This is one of those career moments that feel very personal. Continental is special to me in many ways. During my more than 10 years in Continental’s former Automotive division in Regensburg, I not only laid important foundations for my career but also started my family and discovered Germany as my second home. In that sense, things have come full circle for me. Taking on this role is both an honor and a responsibility – to the company, its shareholders and its employees.
Your predecessor Wolfgang Reitzle shaped the Supervisory Board for 16 years. What do you take away from his term of office?
I have great respect for what Wolfgang Reitzle achieved. He supported Continental for 16 years with foresight and determination and made a significant contribution to the company’s transformation. We will build on this foundation. At the same time, we’re facing different circumstances today. For the first time in its history, Continental will become a pure-play tire manufacturer. That calls for different responses than in the past.
You joined the Supervisory Board in September 2025. What has been your impression of Continental since then?
I like to form my own impressions, and I’ve used my time on Continental’s Supervisory Board to do just that. I’ve visited sites and plants around the world and spoken with employees – in Germany, China, Portugal and the USA. Everywhere I went, I was impressed by the technology, the quality and the innovation. And I was impressed by the people – the passion of the teams and the Continental spirit can be felt everywhere. That gives me great confidence for the future.
What goals have you set yourself in your new role?
I’m starting in a truly unique year for the company. Following the planned sale of ContiTech, Continental will become a pure-play tire manufacturer for the first time. There are global development opportunities, but at the same time we’re operating in a period of major geopolitical and economic challenges. In my view, a strong and modern Supervisory Board is an important partner for business success. I will build on what has already been achieved and support Continental on its journey toward a successful future – with entrepreneurial spirit, continuous dialogue and a clear vision of Continental’s medium- and long-term potential.
Do you see yourself more as a supervisor or as a strategic sparring partner to management in your role as chair of the Supervisory Board?
Both. I aim for supervision that challenges and supports, that oversees and connects, and that stays close to the business without losing perspective. That requires understanding and communication. In that spirit, I’m looking forward to my work on the Supervisory Board and to an open and honest dialogue with CEO Christian Kötz and the Executive Board – as well as to the dialogue with employee representatives. Co-determination is particularly important to me. And I’m passionate about empowering people to reach their full potential and ensuring the right people are in the right roles.
From your perspective, what makes you the right person for this job?
As a trained aerospace and mechanical engineer, I have an in-depth understanding of technology. I’m inspired by new technologies and sustainability. I have over 20 years of experience in international management positions and a strong network, both within the automotive sector and in other industries such as building services, water management and the circular economy. I understand the operational business from my time as a CEO, for example at Siemens Mobility, but I also have extensive experience on supervisory boards, such as at Henkel. Change has been a constant in my career. I’ve helped shape transformation at several companies, including Siemens and Suez. All of this is experience I will bring to my role.
What challenges do you see for Continental over the next few years?
The environment is complex and remains challenging. Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing production and development. Competitors from Asia are entering the tire market. And geopolitical tensions are complicating global trade. But from experience, I know that those who are bold, remain resilient, keep a clear focus on the facts and surround themselves with the right team can succeed even in challenging times.
Finally, a personal question: you sit on several supervisory boards and have steered companies through challenging times. How do you switch off?
By spending time with my family and exercising outdoors. I’m a passionate endurance athlete. Every year, I take part in “La Trans Jurassienne,” a 76-kilometer cross-country ski race through the Jura mountains in France. I’ve also completed multiple marathons and am an avid cyclist. During these moments, I feel completely at one with myself. And at the same time, I’m training my stamina, which is key in my professional life too.
Images of Sabrina Soussan are available here.
