SweGaN AB, a Sweden-based manufacturer of advanced Gallium Nitride on Silicon Carbide (GaN-on-SiC) semiconductor materials, has announced a series of high-profile board appointments as it prepares for its next phase of commercial expansion. The strategic changes come alongside a landmark supply agreement and reflect the company’s growing role in the European semiconductor value chain.
Pontus de Laval, former CTO of Saab and a senior advisor at Navigare Ventures—a key SweGaN shareholder—has been appointed Chairman of the Board. Joining him is renowned Swedish industrialist Leif Johansson, who brings decades of leadership across global corporations including Ericsson, AstraZeneca, Electrolux, and Volvo Group. Johansson has served as Chairman of Ericsson and AstraZeneca and was previously CEO of Electrolux and Volvo, giving him rare insight into scaling industrial enterprises at the global level.
In parallel, Gerry Maguire, Co-Founder and General Partner at Atlantic Bridge, has joined the Board, adding depth in technology investment and operations. David Lam, who served as Interim Chairman during a transformative three-year period, will continue contributing as Deputy Board Member.
These appointments come at a pivotal time for SweGaN. In early 2025, the company secured a multi-year frame agreement with a leading global RF GaN chipmaker to supply its patented GaN-on-SiC epitaxial wafers. This agreement underscores SweGaN’s transition from a research-oriented company to a commercial materials supplier and supports its broader ambitions to serve markets including aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and power electronics.
“SweGaN plays a critical role in Europe’s emerging semiconductor ecosystem,” said Jr-Tai Chen, CEO of SweGaN. “Bringing together leaders like Pontus and Leif at the board level provides invaluable expertise, networks, and strategic vision to help us scale responsibly and sustainably.”
Pontus de Laval emphasized the company’s momentum, stating, “SweGaN is one of the most promising semiconductor companies in Europe. With patented innovations and a highly skilled team, the company is uniquely positioned to support mission-critical applications and enhance regional supply chain resilience.”
Leif Johansson echoed these sentiments: “As Europe builds its semiconductor independence, success will hinge on innovative, technology-driven firms like SweGaN. It’s an exciting opportunity to help shape the future of such a pivotal company.”
In recent months, SweGaN’s proprietary GaN-on-SiC epitaxial wafers have been adopted as standard materials by several key industry players, reinforcing the performance, reliability, and manufacturability of its technology. The company aims to expand its footprint in RF power and next-generation power electronics applications as part of its long-term strategy.
“We are fortunate to have had David Lam guide SweGaN through a critical period of growth,” said Chen. “We’re also excited to welcome Gerry Maguire, whose operational experience and investment insight will be invaluable as we enter new markets and scale production.”
Maguire added, “SweGaN’s focus on deep tech, coupled with support from Sweden and the EU, positions it as a central player in Europe’s semiconductor future.”
