[News] Wolfspeed Appoints Former ams‑OSRAM & NXP Executive as CFO Amid Restructuring Efforts

According to a report from MoneyDJ, Wolfspeed has announced the appointment of Gregor van Issum as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective September 1, 2025. As noted in its press release, Van Issum brings over two decades of experience in transformational restructuring and strategic financing roles across the technology sector. He most recently served as Executive Vice President and Group Controller at ams-OSRAM. Prior to that, he was Vice President of Strategy for NXP Semiconductors’ Secure Transactions and Identification Solutions division.

Van Issum’s appointment follows the arrival of Dr. David Emerson, who joined Wolfspeed in May as Chief Operating Officer, as noted by the press release.

According to Robert Feurle, Wolfspeed’s Chief Executive Officer, Van Issum has helped lead large, multibillion euro businesses with complex manufacturing operations, which will be invaluable to the struggling SiC giant as the company unlocks the potential of its purpose-built 200mm platform.

Chapter 11 Filing and Debt Reduction Plan

Wolfspeed announced on June 30 that it has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing mounting debt and softening demand from the electric vehicle and industrial markets, according to Reuters.

In its press release, Wolfspeed noted it had $1.3 billion in cash as of the third quarter and expects to emerge from Chapter 11 by 3QCY25. Upon emergence, the company anticipates reducing its total debt by about 70%—or nearly $4.6 billion—and lowering its annual cash interest payments by approximately 60%.

Wolfspeed stated it will remain fully operational throughout the restructuring process, continuing to deliver silicon carbide materials and devices to customers and making timely payments to vendors.

Outlook and Competitive Landscape

Looking ahead, CEO Robert Feurle emphasized that Wolfspeed will pursue growth opportunities, supported by its purpose-built, fully automated 200mm manufacturing platform.

While Wolfspeed continues to maintain a strong position in the SiC market despite intense price competition from Chinese rivals, TrendForce cautions that the company must overhaul its operations and aggressively cut production costs to remain competitive.

According to TrendForce, Wolfspeed led the global SiC substrate market in 2024 with a 34% share. However, Chinese competitors TankeBlue and SICC are closing the gap, each holding a 17% share.

Read more

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(Photo credit: Wolfspeed)