Petr Novotny

CEO & Executive Chairman, Škoda Group Petr Novotný has led Škoda Group as CEO and Executive Chairman since October 2023, transforming a company in crisis into a growing, profitable European transport manufacturer with a €3.5 billion order backlog and EBITDA up 185% in 2024. His career spans Deloitte, Coca-Cola, Philip Morris, and 14 years at Scania across Central Europe, Germany, Africa, and India — where he served as Managing Director and Board Member. He also holds a board seat at TEMSA, the Turkish bus manufacturer in Škoda’s 50% JV with Sabancı Holding. His credentials include a Masters in Economics and Administration, FCCA, CIA, and TIO 69 prestigious executive programme at Stockholm School of Economics. He speaks plainly about where the company stood: “Three years ago we faced a severe crisis. Today, Škoda is no longer a burden for its owner.” On taking the role: “It is both an honor and a burden. Our mission is to provide public transport solutions that bring benefits to customers and citizens.” Under his leadership, Škoda secured major contracts across Bulgaria, Germany, Latvia, and the Czech Republic, signed its first deal with a private rail operator, and launched the 200 km/h Škoda 26Ev platform. He restructured the organisation, expanded into new geographies, and built technology partnerships on batteries and hydrogen. His philosophy is consistent across every public appearance. On ambition: “This isn’t about what money can buy but the value we can create.” On Europe: “Crises have often brought visionary leaders to power. We can compete!” In 2026 he joined the Board of Governors of the University of West Bohemia in Pilsen: “Technical education has enormous value if it is connected with reality.” An economist by training, an industrialist by practice, and a public voice for European industrial renewal by conviction. CEO & Executive Chairman, Škoda Group | Board Member, TEMSA | Board of Governors, University of West Bohemia | PPF Group, Senior Management Member