Teradyne today announced leadership changes for both of its robotics divisions, effective immediately. Jean-Pierre Hathout transitions from leading Mobile Industrial Robots (MiR) to replacing Kim Povlsen as the president of Universal Robots (UR). Kevin Dumas succeeds Hathout as the new president of MIR. Povlsen is pursuing an external career opportunity.
This adjustment comes on the heels of recent Teradyne fiscal 2024 financial results. UR, a leading developer of collaborative robotic arms, declined 3% year over year, and autonomous mobile robot (AMR) developer MiR grew 1% year over year. Teradyne Robotics Group laid off 10% of its global staff in January 2024.
Teradyne also last week announced financial results for the first quarter of 2025. According to the company, its robotics revenue was $69 million in Q1 2025, which is down from $98 million in Q4 2024. This also marked a 21% drop in sales in Q1 year over year. In its quarterly report, Teradyne said “robotics continues to face ongoing end market weakness but delivering on AI product portfolio (MiR 1200 Pallet Jack, UR AI Accelerator).”
“Visibility in the second half is limited and the impact of trade policy on end market demand is still in flux,” said Teradyne CEO Greg Smith. “Despite the current market uncertainty, Teradyne is well positioned for the long-term demand drivers of AI, electrification, and verticalization.”
Jean-Pierre Hathout, president of Universal Robots. | Credit: Teradyne
The transition marks a new chapter for Universal Robots as it continues to expand its reach and innovation in the rapidly evolving automation industry. Hathout brings a wealth of experience to the role, following his experience leading the growth and expansion of MIR.
During his tenure, Povlsen oversaw the develop of several new products from Universal Robots. The company also recently announced a significant expansion in China, the world’s largest market for industrial robots. To meet increasing Chinese demand, Universal Robots (UR) has established manufacturing capabilities in Nantong, China. The company will produce two new cobots for that market: the UR7e and UR12e.
“As we mark this transition, I want to thank Kim for his outstanding leadership and his pivotal role in advancing Universal Robots’ mission and strengthening its position in the market,” said Ujjwal Kumar, Group President, Teradyne Robotics. “Looking ahead, we are excited to welcome Jean-Pierre Hathout as the new President. His deep industry knowledge, global leadership experience, and commitment to innovation make him the right person to lead Universal Robots.
New leadership at MiR
Kevin Dumas, president of Mobile Industrial Robots. | Credit: Teradyne
On the mobile robotics side, Dumas succeeds Hathout. During Hathout’s tenure at MiR, the company bolstered its global market presence, broadened its range of AMRs, and spearheaded a number of advancements. His contributions are recognized for establishing a strong foundation for MiR’s future success in providing logistics solutions worldwide.
“I would like to thank Jean-Pierre for his leadership and the important impact he has made at MiR,” stated Ujjwal Kumar, group president of Teradyne Robotics. “As we look ahead, we are thrilled to welcome Kevin Dumas as the new President. Kevin’s deep technical expertise, strong business acumen, and proven track record of driving growth make him ideally suited to lead MiR into its next phase of innovation and global expansion.”
Dumas brings a wealth of experience to the president role, having held multiple leadership positions during his 13-year career at Teradyne. These roles include business unit general manager and director of product marketing & sales. Most recently, he served as VP of product at MiR, providing him with intimate knowledge of the company’s operations and strategic direction. His background encompasses a blend of technical proficiency across mechanical, electrical, and software engineering, coupled with strategic business leadership. Dumas holds a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Worcester Polytechnic Institute and an MBA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
“I’m honored to be able to lead MiR at such a transformational time for the company and for the broader world of robotics,” said Dumas. “Our autonomous mobile robots are transforming how businesses handle logistics, and I look forward to working alongside our talented team to drive innovation, deliver outstanding value to our customers, and expand our impact globally.”
These leadership changes underscore Teradyne Robotics’ commitment to strengthening its position in the rapidly evolving automation market. The current macroeconomic climate demands prudence as the world grapples with U.S. tariffs and the potential fallout of a worldwide recession.
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