Martin Jonsson Appointed New CEO of DEFA Group

As DEFA celebrates its 80th anniversary this year, the company also announces a leadership transition. After 15 years as Group CEO, Bård Klungseth will retire, and the Board of Directors has appointed Martin Jonsson as the new CEO of DEFA Group, effective March 27.

“I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Bård Klungseth for his outstanding leadership and significant contributions to the company’s development,” says Didrik Eidsvig, owner of DEFA, which today operates across Europe, Asia, and North America.

He continues:
“At the same time, I am very pleased that the board has appointed Martin Jonsson as the new CEO. With the right experience, a strong results focus, and deep roots in our operations — not least within the automotive industry — he is well equipped to lead DEFA into its next phase. We are also very pleased to be able to recruit internally, as it provides continuity and builds on the expertise and culture within the company.”

Klungseth to Continue Contributing Through the Advisory Board

Under Bård Klungseth’s leadership, DEFA has achieved revenue growth, geographic expansion, new product launches, and strategic partnerships.

“It has been a great privilege to lead the company during these years. I am proud of what we have accomplished,” says Klungseth.

He will continue to contribute through DEFA’s Advisory Board, providing strategic guidance and ensuring continuity in the company’s long-term development.

Martin Jonsson – Extensive Experience and Strong Organizational Anchoring

Martin Jonsson steps into the role of CEO after nearly eight years in senior leadership positions within DEFA. During his time with the company, he has led two of the Group’s three divisions and held responsibility for purchasing and supply chain — roles that have given him broad insight into the business.

He is currently Executive Vice President of DEFA eMobility.

“DEFA is a company with 80 years of history and a proven ability to evolve alongside technological shifts and changing market demands. Our development is built on a long-term perspective, where innovation, quality, and execution capability create value over time,” says Jonsson.

Three Focus Areas for the Next Phase

“My focus areas are operational discipline, growth, and people. DEFA has strong technology and clear market positions. Now it’s about execution—further developing our businesses and taking the next step in electrification, while also strengthening our expertise even further in AI-based software development and connected services,” says Jonsson, and continues:

“Competitiveness is built by understanding customers’ needs and turning technology into solutions that make a real difference. By combining technological innovation, strong engineering expertise, and a long-term perspective, we can create sustainable growth and strengthen our relevance in a market that is rapidly electrifying and digitalizing.”