HOLLAND, Mich., March 24, 2026 — JR Automation, a Hitachi Group company and global automation leader, has announced the appointment of Farid Bichareh as chief technology officer. Bichareh has more than 25 years of leadership experience spanning industrial automation, robotics, simulation, digital engineering, digital twin, digital thread technology and AI-driven manufacturing transformation.
Throughout his career, Bichareh has developed and executed multiyear global technology strategies, modernized engineering and manufacturing organizations, and unified mechanical, electrical, controls, software and AI disciplines into cohesive, scalable automation architectures. His work has consistently helped companies accelerate innovation, improve performance and adopt future-ready manufacturing technologies.
“Farid’s deep technical expertise, his track record of modernizing engineering organizations and his strong leadership capabilities make him an exceptional fit for JR Automation,” said Dave DeGraaf, CEO, JR Automation and general manager, Hitachi Automation Division. “His vision will help us advance our global technology roadmap, strengthen our digital and automation capabilities and continue delivering innovative solutions that drive meaningful outcomes for our customers.”
As part of the Hitachi Group, JR Automation benefits from the combined strength of Hitachi’s IT and OT capabilities. By integrating advanced digital technologies, including industrial AI, Physical AI, data analytics and digital twin tools, with deep expertise in operational systems and automation, JR Automation can deliver more connected, intelligent and scalable solutions. This alignment enables us to unify the shop floor with the enterprise and support customers as they accelerate their digital transformation.
Bichareh has played a prominent role in shaping the future of smart manufacturing on a global scale. He has served as Smart Factory Chair and Steering Committee Member for the Industry IoT Consortium, merged into Digital Twin Consortium, helping to define frameworks, standards and best practices for interoperability, digital transformation and next generation industrial automation.
“I’m honored to join JR Automation and Hitachi group at such a pivotal moment for the company and the industry,” said Farid Bichareh. “Automation, AI — especially Physical AI — and digital engineering are converging faster than ever, and JR Automation, together with Hitachi, is uniquely positioned to lead that transformation. I’m excited to work with our talented teams to build the next generation of intelligent, connected automation that helps our customers achieve new levels of performance, flexibility and value.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Farid to JR Automation,” added DeGraaf. “His expertise and leadership will be instrumental as we continue to grow, innovate and shape the future of automation.”
About JR Automation
At JR Automation, we accelerate what’s possible with integrated manufacturing solutions that adapt, evolve and scale at the speed of business. With over 45 years of experience, we’re driven to solve complex manufacturing challenges — to deliver results today and for what’s next. As part of the Hitachi Group of Companies, our team of ~2,000 serves customers from 21 facilities in North America, Europe and Asia.
About Hitachi Ltd.
Through its Social Innovation Business (SIB) that brings together IT, OT (Operational Technology) and products, Hitachi contributes to a harmonized society where the environment, wellbeing and economic growth are in balance. Hitachi operates globally in four sectors — Digital Systems & Services, Energy, Mobility and Connective Industries — and the Strategic SIB Business Unit for new growth businesses. With Lumada at its core, Hitachi generates value from integrating data, technology and domain knowledge to solve customer and social challenges. Revenues for FY2024 (ended March 31, 2025) totaled 9,783.3 billion yen, with 618 consolidated subsidiaries and approximately 280,000 employees worldwide.