Mercedes-Benz India Appoints Martin Schwenk as Managing Director
India’s largest luxury car maker Mercedes-Benz today announced the appointment of Martin Schwenk as the new Managing Director and CEO of its India operations effective from 1st November, 2018. Martin Schwenk will replace the highly sucessful Roland Folger, who will assume a new position for Mercedes-Benz’s Thailand & Vietnam markets.
In the last three years under the leadership of Roland Folger, Mercedes-Benz India has witnessed significant growth rates achieving the highest market share in the luxury car segment. Roland Folger played a key role in formulating the brands growth strategy that includes market introductions of key products like the roll-out of the E-Class Long Wheelbase, qualitative expansion of the network footprint, and also the creation of the Vehicle Preparation Centre. In 2017, Mercedes-Benz India achieved sales history by crossing the 15,000 annual sales number. During his tenure in India, Roland Folger has also been instrumental in initiating an array of positive cultural changes within Mercedes- Benz India and successfully driving Daimler AG’s Expedition 2020 initiative.
Roland Folger, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India commented, “My India stint will remain memorable with rich experiences and fond memories. The warmth of our customers and people, the diversity of the country’s culture, and the unique business opportunities and challenges that this market presents, is enormous and truly enriching. I am very satisfied about Mercedes-Benz India’s strong leadership position in the market and our relentless efforts in creating new benchmark in customer delight. Mercedes-Benz India is deeply committed to the Indian market and together we have created a valuable organization, which retains the coveted ‘Most Attractive Employer’ accomplishment. I am thoroughly convinced that the Star will achieve new heights with the new leadership of Martin Schwenk. In 2015, I came to India from Malaysia and will go back to the South East Asian markets of Thailand & Vietnam. While I am eagerly looking forward to my new assignment, there will be a bit of India always inside me. I appreciate all the invaluable and unconditional support that I received from my colleagues here and would also like to thank our investors who are the best and the most professional in the business.”
Martin Schwenk, currently the Chief Financial Officer of Beijing Mercedes-Benz Sales Service Co. Ltd. in China stated, “Having worked across in different countries and functions, I am extremely excited for my forthcoming responsibility to head the dynamic India market. India’s rich cultural diversity, the young population, the diverse customs, different languages and topography together with its importance as a future economic power house; makes it a compelling market to grow the business. It is a privileged opportunity for me to head the business of the most iconic and successful luxury motoring brand, in one of the most vibrant markets in the region. With my experience across various business divisions, I am looking forward to pursue the ‘Indian story’ further and make the foundation of Mercedes-Benz even stronger in India. We have a fantastic winning team comprising our people and investors with proven records, and I am eager to be part of this winning team.”
We at MotorWorldIndia Welcome Mr. Martin Schwenk to India and also wish all the very best to Mr. Roland Folger who would be always remembered as one of the most dynamic and capable MD from the industry.
