In her new role, Vanessa Picron will be responsible for strengthening FORVIA’s innovation strategy by anticipating future automotive technology trends and leveraging innovation performance across all Business Groups to support profitable growth. She will also focus on developing competitive innovation ecosystems to support the company’s innovation roadmaps. Additionally, Vanessa Picron will oversee the intellectual property strategy and performance to ensure FORVIA’s continued leadership in technological advancement.

Currently serving as FCE Europe Division Vice President, Vanessa Picron will succeed Christophe Aufrère, who retired at the end of June.

“Vanessa's appointment is also an opportunity for me to warmly thank Christophe for his active contribution to the Group's success. He is now enjoying an active retirement, serving at the French Automotive Platform (PFA), which I know will benefit from his in-depth technical knowledge of the automotive sector,” said Martin Fischer, CEO of FORVIA. “Vanessa’s appointment is a strategic move for FORVIA. Our goal is to reinforce our innovation leadership and anticipate the rapid changes in the automotive industry.”

Based in Nanterre, Vanessa Picron will report directly to Carla Gohin, Executive Vice President, Chief Strategy Officer.

“I warmly welcome Vanessa to her new position. Her vision and experience will be invaluable as we further enhance our innovation capabilities and address the technological challenges ahead.” Said Carla Gohin, CSO of FORVIA. “I am confident that Vanessa will drive our teams to new heights and help us deliver on our ambition for a more sustainable and high-performance future.”

Vanessa Picron, Group Chief Technology Officer Vice President, said: “I am truly honored and delighted to take on the role of Chief Technology Officer Vice President at FORVIA. I look forward to working with all teams to accelerate our innovation strategy, anticipate the technologies of tomorrow, and strengthen our leadership in sustainable mobility. Together, we will build robust innovation ecosystems and ensure that our intellectual property continues to be a key asset for the Group.”