Drive systems manufacturer GKN Automotive has announced the appointment of Shaoling (Charlie) Qiu as president of GKN Automotive China. Taking up the role on May 1, 2021, he will report directly to GKN Automotive CEO Liam Butterworth and will be based in Shanghai.
Qiu has had an extensive career in the automotive sector, including a four-year stint as president of Dayco China. He joins GKN from Thyssenkrupp Automotive, where he was in charge of the firm’s China division and CEO of its Asia-Pacific business.
“China is a critically important market for us, and Charlie is joining GKN Automotive at the perfect time,” commented Butterworth. “He will be leading our ambitious strategy to continue growing our business in the world’s largest car market.
“Our advanced e-powertrain technologies make us perfectly placed to take advantage of China’s growing appetite for electrified vehicles. We are also intent on boosting our world-leading driveline business, working with our joint-venture partner HASCO. Charlie has the experience and leadership to help us achieve those goals and I look forward to working closely with him.”
Commenting on his new appointment, Qiu said, “I am honored to be joining GKN Automotive, working with Liam and the rest of his leadership team. It is a world-leading business with a tremendous history of innovation and an impeccable reputation with global car manufacturers. With GKN Automotive’s advanced technologies and unrivaled ability to collaborate with car makers, we have a terrific opportunity to rapidly expand in China. It will be an exciting challenge.”
