Panasonic has named Tom Gebhardt, currently president of Panasonic Automotive Systems, to succeed Joseph Taylor as chairman and CEO of Panasonic of North America. Mr. Gebhardt, a 32-year veteran of the company, will become chairman and CEO effective April 1, 2017.

Mr. Taylor is retiring after almost 34 years with the company. He will assume the role of vice chairman of the company until December 31, 2017. He will also serve as a strategic advisor to Panasonic Avionics and as a board member of Hussmann.

Mr. Gebhardt has led Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America since 2012. During his career with the company, he has served as president of Panasonic Industrial Group, president of Panasonic Factory Solutions Company of America, and general manager of Panasonic Batteries.

Succeeding Mr. Gebhardt as president of Panasonic Automotive Systems Company of America will be Scott Kirchner, who currently serves as the company’s CTO and executive vice president.