German tire manufacturer Continental AG has announced the appointment of Christian Kötz as its new CEO. Kötz succeeds Nikolai Setzer, who will step down from the company’s Board of Directors on December 31, after more than 16 years on the board, including five years as CEO.
Christian Kötz will officially assume his new role on January 1, 2026. This appointment is part of a strategic decision that will see Continental AG become a company fully dedicated to the tire business.
Having been with Continental since 1996, Christian Kötz has held several roles within the tire group, spanning replacement tires, original equipment and commercial segments, as well as global research and development activities. He has been a member of Continental AG’s Board of Directors since 2019.
(Photo: Christian Kötz, via Continental)

