Industrial computer manufacturer Advantech (2395-TW) today (5th) announced its management succession plan. Founder Liu Ko-Chen will transition to non-executive chairman effective January 1, 2027, with current Embedded IoT Group General Manager Chang Chia-Hao succeeding him as CEO. The move reflects organizational maturity and the readiness of the succession team, including CXOs and business unit general managers. Advantech aims to strengthen competitiveness through clear operational division and global collaboration.
Chang Chia-Hao to Lead Cross-Division Integration and AI Commercialization
Chang Chia-Hao joined Advantech in 2007 and has led the Embedded IoT Group, driving edge computing, Edge AI, and global industry ecosystem partnerships. As CEO, his primary responsibilities will include deepening cross-division collaboration, integrating technology and global channel resources across business units, and formulating overall operational goals to accelerate commercialization and scaling of "Edge Computing & AI-Powered WISE Solutions."
Chang stated that as AI transitions from technological innovation to industrial-scale application, competitive advantage will depend on integrating computing platforms, software services, industry knowledge, and global service capabilities to create sustainable business value. Advantech has built solid technology, brand recognition, industry experience, and global presence over 40 years, which will serve as the foundation for the next growth phase led by the management team.
He added that future priorities include deepening cross-division collaboration and global operational integration, connecting Advantech's technology, industry experience, and global channel resources to accelerate Edge AI, AI Agent, and Physical AI deployment across vertical industries. The company will continue developing emerging industries and product solutions to cultivate new growth momentum and drive operational scale, revenue, and profitability to new milestones.
Liu Ko-Chen to Focus on Governance and Long-Term Development
Liu Ko-Chen stated he joined and co-founded Advantech in 1983 at age 29, marking 42 years with the company. With the business model maturing and the succession team largely in place, the CEO transition is a necessary step aligned with corporate development and sustainable management. After transitioning to non-executive chairman, he will focus on corporate governance, long-term development, and new business investments while supporting the new management team in driving continued growth.
Advantech Establishes Separated Board and Executive Structure
Advantech will further clarify the responsibilities of chairman and CEO. The chairman will oversee corporate governance, long-term development, and new business investments. The CEO, alongside the COO and CFO, will manage group operations, business integration, resource allocation, and annual operational targets. Through the WWBO (Worldwide Business Operations) global collaboration framework, the company will strengthen cross-division and cross-regional coordination and decision-making efficiency, establishing a management model balancing long-term strategic planning with operational execution.
FAQ
When will Chang Chia-Hao officially become Advantech's CEO?
Chang Chia-Hao will officially assume the CEO position on January 1, 2027, when founder Liu Ko-Chen transitions to non-executive chairman.
What will Liu Ko-Chen focus on after stepping down as CEO?
After transitioning to non-executive chairman, Liu Ko-Chen will focus on corporate governance, long-term development issues, and new business investments while supporting the new management team.
