Brussels, 21 November 2024 –Dr Stefan Finkbeiner has been elected as the new Chair of the Chips Joint Undertaking (Chips JU) Governing Board (GB), succeeding Dipl. -Ing. Ralf Bornefeld. With more than 20 years of experience in the semiconductor industry in various positions related to research, development, production, and marketing of sensors, Dr Finkbeiner, currently CEO of Bosch Sensortec GmbH, brings significant expertise to this role at a crucial time for Europe’s semiconductor sector. 

Welcoming this appointment, Dr Finkbeiner remarked: “I wish to thank the Chips JU Governing Board for their trust. Today, more than ever, we need strategic initiatives that will secure Europe’s position in the global semiconductor landscape. The Chips JU tri-partite model is central to achieving this goal, and I look forward to working closely with all the JU members to drive innovation and cooperation in Europe.”

Dipl. -Ing. Bornefeld expressed his confidence in the incoming chair: “I am grateful to the Chips JU members and community for their support during my tenure. I wish Dr Finkbeiner all the best in leading the Chips JU to new achievements in Europe’s semiconductor innovation.”

Prof. Dr Jari Kinaret, Executive Director of the Chips JU, also welcomed the transition: “We extend our warmest thanks to Mr Bornefeld for his contributions and commitment over the past three years. We welcome Dr Finkbeiner and look forward to continued progress in our programme. We believe his vision and experience will be crucial in driving forward our shared ambitions.”

About Chips Joint Undertaking:

Chips Joint Undertaking supports research, development, innovation, and capacity building in the European semiconductor ecosystem. Launched by the European Union Council Regulation No 2021/1085 and amended in September 2023 via Council Regulation 2023/1782, it contributes to reinforce the competitiveness and resilience of the semiconductor technological and industrial base, engaging a significant EU, national/regional and private industry funding of nearly €11 billion. The Chips JU is funded by the European Union, Chips JU Participating States and the Private Members.

Media Contacts:
Chips Joint Undertaking 
communication@chips-ju.europa.eu 
Luciano.Gaudio@chips-ju.europa.eu