Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Otbosch resigns… His successor is Chris Brownridge.

Rolls-Royce CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös will step down from his position on November 30.

CEO Torsten, who joined Rolls-Royce in 2010, has led the company for the longest period since Claude Johnson. He led Rolls-Royce’s rapid growth based on a deep understanding of the diverse needs, tastes, and desires of customers around the world.

In fact, under his management, the ‘Race’ and ‘Dun’, as well as the brand’s first SUV, ‘Cullinan’, were created, and the first electric vehicle ‘Specter’ is also about to be released. In addition, the coachbuilding department became independent in 2017 to expand the bespoke program and also introduced the ultimate bespoke work such as the drop tail.

This move brought in a large number of new customers. Rolls-Royce’s annual sales volume increased more than six-fold from about 1,000 units in 2009 to more than 6,000 units in 2022, and the average customer age also decreased from 56 to 43.

CEO Torsten Müller-Otbosch said, “It has been my greatest privilege and joy to lead Rolls-Royce Motor Cars for the past 14 years and grow the brand to the pinnacle of the luxury industry.” He added, “The newly appointed Chris Brownridge will join Rolls-Royce with talented and innovative people. “We will continue to embellish this special story.”

Chris Brownridge, CEO of BMW UK, was appointed as his successor. Chris Brownridge is a sales and marketing expert who has worked at the BMW Group for about 30 years.

Oliver Zipse, Chairman of BMW Group, said, “Torsten’s outstanding leadership, dedication, clear vision and outstanding ability to lead a team were the driving forces that made Rolls-Royce the global luxury brand it is today,” adding, “Chris has been appointed as the new CEO. “Brownridge is an expert with an outstanding track record and extensive experience, and we are confident that he will lead Rolls-Royce Motor Cars into a pure electric future.”

Seungyoung Shin sy@autocast.kr