Stepping Down As CEO And President After 12 Years In The Position

Continental announced today that Chief Executive Officer and president Rhett Ross plans to retire.

Over the past 12 years, Ross (pictured) has guided Continental through a recession, the sale to AVIC International Holding Corporation, and Continental’s listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. He led Continental in five successful acquisitions to add technology and additional product lines valued in excess of $40 million. Ross most recently championed the $75 million construction of Continental’s new manufacturing facility in Mobile, Alabama, paving the way for the future of Continental.

During his tenure, Ross developed an accomplished team to guide the various sectors of the business. The leadership team will be setting and leading the execution of the transformation strategy for 2020 with a focus to grow the company with an extensive product breadth and support customers across the globe.

“I have enjoyed my time with Continental,” said Rhett Ross. “It has been an honor to lead this organization during such a dynamic time. I have been fortunate to work alongside such a dedicated team that has a passion for building innovative and reliable products.”

Moving forward, Ross plans to reconnect with his family and begin the next phase of his life as an entrepreneur in partnership with his wife.

A global search is currently underway for a new CEO. In the interim, Michael Skolnik (pictured) has been appointed Chief Operating Officer, COO, effective immediately. Skolnik joined Continental in 2007 and has held various leadership positions in operations. Skolnik most recently was promoted to Executive Vice President of Global Operations in 2016. In his new role as interim CEO, he has full responsibility and authority of Continental Aerospace Technologies until such time that the CEO position is fulfilled.

(Images provided with Continental Aerospace Technologies news release and from file)

FMI: www.continental.aero