In a recent announcement, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars revealed that its Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, is set to retire from the position on November 30, 2023. His successor will be Chris Brownridge, who presently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of BMW UK. This transition marks a significant change in leadership for the prestigious automobile manufacturer. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars announces retirement of CEO Torsten Müller-Ötvös
Torsten is the marque’s longest-serving CEO since Claude Johnson, the man known as 'the hyphen in Rolls-Royce'
14-year tenure has seen Rolls-Royce transition from pinnacle automotive manufacturer to true luxury house
During his tenure, sales increased sixfold, bringing significant economic benefits to ‘UK plc’
Introduced first all-electric Rolls-Royce in the marque’s 120-year history and paved the way for Rolls-Royce’s all-electric future by the end of 2030
Leaves the brand in a very strong market position, with ambitious expansion plans for the marque’s headquarters at Goodwood in West Sussex
Will be succeeded on 1 December 2023 by Chris Brownridge, currently Chief Executive Officer of BMW UK
Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has officially announced the retirement of its Chief Executive Officer, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, effective November 30, 2023. His successor will be Chris Brownridge, the current Chief Executive Officer of BMW UK.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös has had a long and illustrious tenure with Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, joining in 2010 and becoming the company's longest-serving CEO since Claude Johnson, often referred to as 'the hyphen in Rolls-Royce.' During his leadership, Rolls-Royce transformed from being solely an automotive manufacturer into a globally renowned luxury brand, celebrated for its bespoke craftsmanship and deep understanding of its international clientele.
This transformation translated into remarkable commercial success, with annual sales soaring from around 1,000 vehicles in 2009 to over 6,000 in 2022. Each Rolls-Royce vehicle leaving the Global Centre of Luxury Manufacturing Excellence in Goodwood, West Sussex, is bespoke, tailored to the specific preferences of its owner.
Under Torsten's guidance, Rolls-Royce introduced new models, expanded its bespoke offerings, and ventured into the super-luxury sector, attracting a younger clientele. The average price of a Rolls-Royce doubled from around €250,000 to approximately €500,000, and the average age of their customers dropped to just 43.
Additionally, the company embraced new technologies and adopted a customer-centric approach, bringing the brand directly to its clients through initiatives like Private Office boutiques and the Whispers app—a digital members' club for Rolls-Royce owners.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös expressed gratitude for his time at Rolls-Royce and the opportunity to work closely with their clients, which he described as a true education. He also emphasized that the company is prepared for the future, including expanding its Goodwood site for increased electric production and bespoke and coachbuild products.
Chris Brownridge, who will succeed Torsten Müller-Ötvös, has nearly 30 years of experience with the BMW Group. He has held various roles, including CEO of BMW UK since 2021. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment as Rolls-Royce transitions into an all-electric future. Brownridge expressed honor and excitement in joining the Rolls-Royce brand and building on its success.
Torsten Müller-Ötvös concluded by expressing confidence in the Rolls-Royce team and its ability to continue adding remarkable chapters to the company's extraordinary story. He looks forward to new professional challenges and some leisurely fly-fishing adventures while wishing Chris Brownridge success as he takes the helm of the marque.
