Harman Appoints Michael Mauser as New CEO

Harman has announced that Dinesh Paliwal will step down on April 1 after nearly 13 years with the company as President and CEO. He will be succeeded by Michael Mauser, the current COO. 

Mauser will join the company’s board of directors, effective April 1. To ensure a smooth and seamless transition, Paliwal has agreed to remain with Harman as Senior Advisor to the board of directors and to the CEO until December 2020.

Speaking on behalf of Harman’s Board of Directors, Chairman of the Board, Young Sohn said: “Dinesh is a visionary leader. He has provided outstanding leadership over the past 13 years and delivered strong and consistent financial performance while driving innovation. Dinesh also served as a selfless mentor for associates across the organization, championing diversity and adhering to the highest standards of corporate ethics.”

Young Sohn continued: “Michael is a proven leader with strong operational skills, business vision and the ability to bring people together and the board is confident that he is the right person to usher in this next chapter of growth for Harman. He brings the depth of experience and innovative thinking that has powered his previous achievements.”

“Leading Harman has truly been the honor of my lifetime, and I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished over the past 13 years,” said Paliwal. “Harman is in a very strong position for continued growth with its brightest days still ahead.”

Commenting on his appointment, Mauser said, “I’m incredibly humbled and privileged to be appointed the next President and CEO of Harman, and I want to thank the Board of Directors for the confidence they have placed in me. I also want to thank Dinesh for his overwhelming support. He has transformed the company with his bold vision and outstanding leadership, and I feel fortunate to have him as a mentor and a friend. In addition, I want to thank all my colleagues, as well as the customers, suppliers and partners who are part of the Harman family. I look forward to working more closely with all of you in the months and years ahead, and to continue growing this special company long into the future.”

Mauser has held a number of executive and general management roles in his 22 years at Harman. He was appointed as COO in June of 2019.