Christopher Marsh has taken on the role of Head of the Surface Solutions business and the Pune Plant at Continental India, succeeding Landry Tchapda. With over 15 years of experience in the automotive sector, Marsh is well-positioned to enhance operations and connections in India and globally. The Greenfield Plant, initiated by Continental’s ContiTech sector, boasts advanced capabilities, prioritizing quality and furthering Continental’s commitment to the Indian market and expansion plans. Continental, a global technology company, generated sales of €39.4 billion in 2022 and operates in 57 countries.
Christopher Marsh assumed his role as the Head of the Surface Solutions business and the Pune Plant in India on October 1, 2023. He succeeds Landry Tchapda, who, at the end of his assignment, has been assigned another responsibility within the organization and is moving to Australia.
Prashanth Doreswamy, President and CEO, of Continental India, extended a warm welcome to Christopher Marsh, expressing his confidence in Christopher’s extensive experience and the valuable contributions he will make to the company. He also expressed gratitude to Landry Tchapda for his invaluable contributions, particularly in the establishment of the Greenfield Plant.
Christopher Marsh, Head of the Surface Solutions business area, ContinTech India, conveyed his delight in joining Continental and undertaking this new role. He expressed his commitment to India’s important market and shared his aspirations to contribute significantly to business growth, strengthen sustainability initiatives, and chart a strategic path for both the Indian and global markets. With over 15 years of experience in the automotive manufacturing industry, including roles at organizations like Dana Axle and Jaguar Land Rover, Christopher brings a wealth of expertise to the role. He is poised to expand the business’s existing connections and operations in India and explore the potential of the export market.
Landry Tchapda played a pivotal role during his five-year assignment as Head of the Surface Solutions business and the Pune Plant. Under his leadership, the Greenfield Plant was established, the plant was inaugurated in April 2022, and the customer portfolio was built. His efforts in defining production and sales objectives have been notable. He has been instrumental in elevating the business’s visibility.
Continental’s group sector, ContiTech, initiated the Pune Plant in 2018 to manufacture surface materials for passenger vehicles and two-wheelers. The plant’s groundbreaking ceremony was held in 2018, with its inauguration in April 2022, guided by Landry Tchapda. With an initial investment of over 2 billion Indian Rupees (more than 20 million Euros), Continental has been producing premium surface materials for car interiors and two-wheeler seats. The plant primarily caters to the domestic market while exploring opportunities for exports.
The manufacturing facility spans approximately 149,000 square feet (around 14,000 square meters) and boasts an annual capacity of up to five million square meters of surface material, which can be expanded to 10 million square meters. Continental’s surface solutions prioritize luxury and comfort, enhancing the overall driving experience. With more than 300 years of industry heritage, Continental’s surface materials uphold a commitment to state-of-the-art quality.
Strategically located in Pune to target automotive hubs in the southern region, the Greenfield Plant acts as a key asset for export markets through OEMs. It aligns with Continental’s investment plans for India and leverages a highly skilled workforce and cutting-edge technology. The facility offers world-class production capabilities and encompasses storage, logistics, purchasing, sales, and cutting-edge laboratories. Continental reaffirms its commitment to the Indian market and aims to further expand its presence in the country.
About Christopher Marsh
Christopher Marsh, as Head of the Surface Solutions business area, ContinTech India, brings over 15 years of experience in the automotive
