MAM
Harman welcomes Christian Sobottka as new CEO; Michael Mauser hung his boots after 27 years
MUMBAI: A changing of the guard is underway at Harman International, the tech powerhouse behind cutting-edge automotive, consumer, and enterprise innovations. Michael Mauser, the company’s longtime leader, is stepping down as president & CEO on 31 March 2025, making way for Christian Sobottka, who will officially assume the role on 1 April 2025.
After 27 years at Harman, Mauser has decided to pass the baton, having led the company through industry-defining moments, including Samsung’s acquisition in 2017, the COVID-19 pandemic, and global semiconductor shortages. Under his leadership, Harman hit $11 billion in revenue, achieved record profitability, and amassed a jaw-dropping $45 billion in automotive business backlog.
“After nearly three decades with Harman and aligned with our diligent succession planning process, I have decided to step away to spend more time with my family and explore new opportunities,” Mauser said. “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and confident in Christian’s ability to lead Harman into its next chapter.”
Stepping up is Sobottka, a seasoned automotive industry veteran with over 25 years of experience. Since taking over as president of Harman’s automotive division in 2021, Sobottka has been at the forefront of major transformations, steering Harman towards a product- and software-focused model. His expertise in advanced in-cabin experiences and strategic automotive partnerships makes him the ideal choice to drive Harman’s next wave of innovation.
“I am honored to assume the role of president & CEO of Harman,” Sobottka said. “Building on our legacy of innovation and excellence, I look forward to working with our talented teams to drive the next phase of growth and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers and partners.”
Harman’s board of directors chairman Young Sohn praised Mauser’s unwavering leadership and vision, stating, “We extend our deepest gratitude to Michael for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to Harman’s success. His strategic vision has positioned the company for continued growth. We are confident that Christian’s extensive experience and proven track record make him the ideal leader to guide Harman into the future.”
Alongside Sobottka’s appointment, Harman’s lifestyle division president Dave Rogers will join the board of directors, marking another shift in the company’s leadership team.
With its legacy of cutting-edge innovation, Harman remains committed to revolutionising connected technology across automotive, consumer, and enterprise markets. The transition from Mauser to Sobottka signals a new era of growth, software-driven advancements, and global expansion.
Brands
Jubilant FoodWorks faces Rs 47.5 crore GST demand, plans appeal
Tax authorities flag alleged misclassification of restaurant services
MUMBAI: Jubilant FoodWorks Limited has landed in a tax tussle after receiving a GST demand of Rs 47.5 crore from the office of the additional commissioner of CGST and central excise in Thane, Maharashtra.
The order, issued under the provisions of the Central Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017, relates to an alleged incorrect classification of certain services under the category of restaurant services. According to the tax authorities, this classification resulted in a short payment of goods and services tax for the period between the financial years 2019-20 and 2021-22.
The demand includes Rs 47.5 crore in GST along with an equal amount as penalty, in addition to applicable interest. The order was received by the company on March 13, 2026.
In a regulatory filing to the BSE Limited and the National Stock Exchange of India Limited, the company said it disagrees with the order and believes its arguments were not adequately considered.
The company is preparing to challenge the decision and plans to file an appeal. It added that once the redressal process is complete, the demand is likely to be dropped.
Despite the sizeable figure attached to the notice, the company said it does not expect any material impact on its financials, operations or other activities.
The disclosure was signed by Suman Hegde, EVP and chief financial officer, who confirmed that the company received the order at 19:06 IST on March 13 and has already initiated steps to contest it.
The development places the quick service restaurant major in the middle of a tax debate that could hinge on how certain restaurant-linked services are classified under GST rules. For now, the company appears ready to take the matter from the tax office to the appeals desk.
