KONE Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

KONE has 5 executives leading key functions including finance, operations, strategy, and personnel.

Driven by innovation, KONE is dedicated to enhancing urban mobility through advanced elevator and escalator solutions, focusing on sustainability and customer-centric service across global markets.

Leadership Roles at KONE

  • Greater Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (China) - Chia Angus Lai
  • VP- Chief Operating Officer and Installation Director - Adiel Hagai
  • President - Ernie Lazarus
  • Executive VP, Strategy & Transformation - Nicolas Alchal
  • Jefe De Personal - Gabriela Castaeda
  • Chia Angus Lai - Greater Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (China)

    Chia Angus Lai, the Greater Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (China) at KONE, directs financial strategy and operations within the critical Chinese market. This leadership role involves overseeing all fiscal activities, including budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and capital management, ensuring alignment with KONE's global financial objectives. Lai's oversight extends to managing financial risks and optimizing financial performance to support sustained growth in one of KONE's most significant regions. The financial stewardship provided by Chia Angus Lai is essential for navigating the complexities of the Chinese market and driving profitability for KONE's extensive elevator and escalator business. This executive's focus on financial integrity and strategic resource allocation underpins the company's operational stability and expansion efforts in Asia.

    Adiel Hagai - VP- Chief Operating Officer and Installation Director

    Adiel Hagai, the VP- Chief Operating Officer and Installation Director at KONE, orchestrates the company's operational execution and installation processes across its service territories. This dual role demands a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing efficiency, supply chain logistics, and the precise deployment of vertical transportation systems. Hagai's responsibilities include optimizing installation workflows, ensuring adherence to safety standards, and driving operational excellence to meet client demands for elevators, escalators, and autowalks. The strategic direction provided by Adiel Hagai is crucial for maintaining KONE's reputation for reliable and timely project completion. This leadership position involves close collaboration with engineering and sales teams to ensure seamless project delivery from inception through to final installation, directly impacting customer satisfaction and KONE's market presence.

    Ernie Lazarus - President

    Ernie Lazarus, the President at KONE, provides overarching leadership and strategic direction for the company's global operations. This executive role encompasses setting the vision for KONE's continued expansion in the elevator and escalator industry, driving innovation in vertical transportation solutions, and ensuring the company's commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction. Lazarus's leadership guides the development of comprehensive lifecycle services, from design and manufacturing to maintenance and modernization. The strategic impetus from Ernie Lazarus is vital for KONE's sustained market leadership and its ability to adapt to evolving urban landscapes and building technologies. This position involves fostering a culture of excellence and driving performance across all business units to achieve long-term growth objectives.

    Nicolas Alchal - Executive VP, Strategy & Transformation

    Nicolas Alchal, the Executive VP, Strategy & Transformation at KONE, spearheads the company's strategic planning and organizational transformation initiatives. This executive role is pivotal in shaping KONE's future direction, identifying new market opportunities, and driving the adoption of innovative technologies and business models within the elevator and escalator sector. Alchal's focus includes enhancing KONE's competitive edge through strategic partnerships, digital advancements, and process optimization across its global operations. The transformative vision of Nicolas Alchal is essential for navigating the dynamic landscape of urban mobility and ensuring KONE's long-term growth and market leadership. This position involves rigorous analysis of market trends and the implementation of strategic projects that redefine KONE's operational capabilities and service offerings.

    Gabriela Castaeda - Jefe De Personal

    Gabriela Castaeda, the Jefe De Personal at KONE, manages human resources and personnel functions, ensuring the effective deployment and development of KONE's workforce. This role is critical for cultivating a skilled and motivated team that supports the company's extensive operations in designing, manufacturing, installing, and servicing elevators and escalators. Castaeda's responsibilities include talent acquisition, employee relations, performance management, and implementing HR policies that align with KONE's global strategy and local labor laws. The focus on personnel development by Gabriela Castaeda is fundamental to maintaining operational efficiency and fostering a positive work environment across KONE's diverse geographical presence. This leadership ensures that KONE has the right talent in place to drive innovation and deliver exceptional service.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding KONE Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads KONE?
    KONE is led by Chia Angus Lai (Greater Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (China)), along with executives such as Adiel Hagai (VP- Chief Operating Officer and Installation Director) and Ernie Lazarus (President).
    Who is part of KONE’s executive team?
    The executive team of KONE includes leaders such as Chia Angus Lai (Greater Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (China)), Adiel Hagai (VP- Chief Operating Officer and Installation Director), Ernie Lazarus (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does KONE have?
    KONE has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in KONE’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of KONE includes roles such as Greater Vice President & Chief Financial Officer (China), VP- Chief Operating Officer and Installation Director, President, Executive VP, Strategy & Transformation, Jefe De Personal.