Catharina Tunberg is Permobil’s new head of R&D.

Catharina Tunberg

In an Oct. 13 news announcement, Permobil said Tunberg’s new title is Executive VP, Research & Development, Permobil Group. “Her mission will be to build on Permobil’s holistic approach to solutions for people living with disabilities,” the announcement added. “This encompasses hardware, software and services within power wheelchairs, manual wheelchairs, seating solutions and power-assist devices. She will head up the global Group Research and Development function, spearheading innovation, product development and cost position.”

Bengt Thorsson, Permobil’s CEO, said of the appointment, “Bringing innovative solutions to the market, or moreover to the people who use our products, is part of Permobil’s DNA. Catharina’s broad knowledge of cloud-based solutions, hardware technology, product development and product quality fits perfectly into that and will take us to the next phase on our journey.”

Tunberg most recently served as CTO for the Global Solutions division at ASSA ABLOY, a company that focuses on security and access technology. She has been an elected member of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences since 2009, and holds a Master of Science degree in mechanical engineering from the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm.

“I’m really looking forward to continuing Permobil’s important work to innovate for individuals,” Tunberg said in the announcement. “My focus will be building on synergies within the entire product portfolio and strengthening the holistic approach of the offering.”

Tunberg will start her new position in early 2022.