Vladislav Kuhanik

Vladislav Kuhanik was the former chairman of Skoda, who witnessed the company's internal changes from 1997 to 2007. In 1981, he began his business career in the economic planning department of Motor Jikov, an important supplier in the Czech automotive industry. He has served as the director of the company's procurement department, commercial director, and chairman. From 1992 to 1997, he served as the Managing Director of Robert Bosch Limited, a joint venture founded by Motor Jikov. In 1991, Skoda was acquired by Volkswagen, which led to significant changes in sales, manufacturing, product design, and quality. In the words of the New York Times, Skoda's transformation was one of the most dramatic turning points in Central Europe. In April 1997, Vladislav was elected as the Chairman of Skoda's Board of Directors. In 2007, he left Skoda's board of directors and became a partner of Industrial Consulting Limited. Since 1997, he has served as the President of the Czech Automobile Industry Association and the Vice President of the Czech Industry and Transport Association.