Astera, a leading developer of innovative lighting solutions for the film and events industry, has announced the appointment of Carl-Johan Sköld as its new Group CEO. Sköld, who has been serving as a consultant for the German-based lighting firm, brings a wealth of experience in business consultancy, M&A advisory services, and strategic development, with a focus on the East Asian market.
With a background in economics and philosophy, Sköld holds a Master’s degree from the London School of Economics. He has spent over a decade in business development, including a role as a project manager for the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, overseeing industry-wide initiatives in banking, securities, insurance, and metals. He later worked as a consultant in Sweden, specializing in strategy development and implementation for various sectors, including telecom, banking, civil administration, and business services.
Since 2012, Sköld has been a Founding Partner of Stenvall Skoeld & Company, a strategic advisory firm focusing on mergers, acquisitions, and strategic partnerships, particularly in middle-market transactions involving Asia. His strong analytical skills will play a crucial role in evaluating Astera’s operations, from product design to manufacturing, internal processes, intelligence gathering, accounting, reporting, finance, and global strategy.
Sköld’s unique ability to bridge the European and East Asian markets will be a significant asset to Astera, whose operations span both Germany and China. Astera leverages German engineering and product design, coupled with Chinese manufacturing efficiency, to deliver innovative lighting solutions. Sköld will work closely with management teams in both countries to chart Astera’s future, establish long-term strategies and goals, and strengthen its current position in the market.
Commenting on his appointment, Sköld said, “Astera’s approach to innovation, based on thoughtful design tailored to the specific needs of lighting professionals, is what sets them apart in the market. Their reputation is well-deserved, and I am excited to embark on this new path with them.”
Welcoming Sköld, Sebastian Bückle, Sales & Marketing Director at Astera, expressed enthusiasm, highlighting Sköld’s fit for the company and the valuable insight, knowledge, drive, and vision he brings to the team. Astera looks forward to a successful partnership under Sköld’s leadership.
