INDUSTRY MOCVD
Aixtron’s new CEO takes holistic approach
Profitability, greater customer focus and technological innovation top the agenda of Aixtron’s new boss Martin Goetzeler.
Interview by RICHARD STEVENSON.
Q A
Why did you decide to take on the role of CEO of Aixtron?
I have followed Aixtron over many years as president of Photonics 21, as CEO and COO of Osram and most recently at the EU, where I was I heading a review of nano-electronic projects. For me, Aixtron is an exciting tech company, with a leading portfolio in many semiconductor manufacturing technologies that address applications such as LEDs, OLEDs, power electronics, silicon, graphene and CNTs. It is also great for me to serve various megatrends, like mobility and energy efficiency.
Also important to me is Aixtron’s global presence, and the capable, proven team that has a track record of withstanding difficult times.
Last but not least, it’s fair to mention that customers - as well as shareholders and other stake holders – believe in the capability of Aixtron to deliver future innovative technologies, and so do I.
Q A
What previous positions have you held, and how will that help you to lead the company?
After 17 years with Siemens, I began my career at the Siemens
subsidiary Osram in 1999, working for several years in Italy, in the UK and the US, and as CEO and COO. Right from the beginning as chairman of the board of the former Osram GmbH in 2005 I focused on expanding the LED and also the Asia business.
The largest share of investments went to innovative products, for example LEDs and energy efficient products.
This allowed Osram to successfully lead through troubled times during the 2008-2009 economic crisis. And on that basis I also feel very well prepared to successfully lead Aixtron through these challenging times.
Q A
How would you describe the state of Aixtron when you arrived?
Aixtron has a comprehensive technological expertise and a core competency in the deposition of complex materials, which the company turned over many years into business success by providing enabling technologies for emerging and also growing semiconductor markets.
When I joined the company in March 2013, the supervisory board asked me to return the company to the success path, which means to the position as a technology and market leader and back to financial solidity.
Against this background we diligently analysed and addressed the current situation. We quickly introduced our five- point program in order to re-focus the company and to increase the efficiencies within our organisation.
We set out a clear direction for the company, focusing on our customers, the utilisation of our technology portfolio, process optimisation, sustainable profitability and a focus on leadership.
Based on our strategy review, we continue to invest into our diversified product portfolio, including OLEDs and power electronics, to develop a broader
March 2014
www.compoundsemiconductor.net 33
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