MAM
Routematic steers towards growth with new people and culture chief
MUMBAI: Routematic, have recruited Chidananda Murthy as their new vice president of people and culture. Murthy, a seasoned HR veteran, is tasked with transforming Routematic’s people strategy.
Murthy’s background spans major firms – Walmart, Nokia, and others. He’s experienced in all aspects of HR, aiming for a less stressful workplace.
Routematic co-founder and executive director Kavitha Ramachandragowda is clearly chuffed with the appointment. “Murthy’s expertise is like a shot of adrenaline for our growth,” she says. “He’ll ensure we attract the best and brightest, and keep them happy.”
Murthy’s mission is to cultivate a culture of innovation and inclusivity. “Routematic’s at a pivotal point,” Murthy enthuses. “We’re not just moving people; we’re moving mountains.”
Routematic, with its recent Hyderabad expansion and EV integration, is clearly on a roll. “We’re aiming for a workplace that doesn’t just tick boxes, but ignites passions,” Murthy concludes. “And hopefully, avoids any HR-related road rage.”
MAM
Continental Tires appoints Nevin Aslan-Özkan as Managing Director for India
Finance leader to drive growth in passenger vehicle segment from 6 April 2026.
MUMBAI: Continental Tires has put a fresh pair of tyres on its Indian leadership and this time, they’re rolling with strong financial horsepower. The premium tyre manufacturer has announced the appointment of Nevin Aslan-Özkan as managing director of Continental Tires India, effective 6 April 2026. She succeeds Samir Gupta, who stepped down on 5 April 2026 for personal reasons.
Nevin joined Continental in 2017 and has held key leadership roles in Mergers & Acquisitions and Strategy & Business Development across EMEA and APAC. Since May 2025, she has served as Chief Financial Officer for Continental Tires India, shaping the company’s financial strategy and performance.
In her new role, she will lead the company’s growth agenda in India, with a sharp focus on accelerating its presence in the passenger vehicle segment. This appointment comes at a pivotal time, following the recent launch of the CrossContact A/T² tyre, the first market globally to receive this product and a €10.5 million (approximately Rs 100 crore) investment to strengthen Continental’s position, particularly in the ultra-high-performance (UUHP) segment.
Nevin Aslan-Özkan said, “India continues to be a strong focus market for Continental Tires. Guided by our ‘In the Market, For the Market’ approach, we will continue to deliver products and technologies designed for Indian roads.”
Samir Gupta, who joined Continental in 2012 and served as managing director since January 2022, was recognised for his significant contribution to expanding the brand’s footprint in India.
Continental is a leading global tyre manufacturer founded in 1871. The company generated sales of €19.7 billion in 2025 and employs around 78,000 people across 54 countries. Its Tires group sector, which includes premium car, truck, bus, two-wheel and specialty tyres, recorded sales of €13.8 billion in fiscal 2025 and employs more than 56,000 people worldwide.
With Nevin Aslan-Özkan at the wheel, Continental Tires India is clearly gearing up for a smoother and more aggressive drive in one of the world’s fastest-growing automotive markets. The road ahead looks promising.
