Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced today that its CEO, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, will retire on 30 November 2023. He will be succeeded by Chris Brownridge, currently CEO of BMW UK.

With 14 years as CEO, the German leaves BMW Group’s British high luxury brand as its longest-serving CEO since Claude Johnson brought Charles Rolls and Henry Royce together in 1904.

Huge success

Since he arrived in 2010, Müller-Ötvös has presided over a rise in annual Rolls-Royce sales from around 1 000 to more than 6 000, with a significant expansion in export markets. The growth of this former specialist and niche automotive manufacturer into a proper luxury house has meant that the cars have become arguably more exclusive than ever.

In 2010, the average price of a Rolls-Royce was around €250 000, and the average client was aged 56. Today, the average price has doubled to about €500 000, and the average age of a Rolls-Royce client is just 43.

When Müller-Ötvös took up his appointment, Goodwood produced just two models, the Phantom and the Ghost. Under his leadership, the Rolls-Royce Wraith and Dawn were introduced, as was the rule-breaking Rolls‑Royce Cullinan, the first SUV in the marque’s history.

But perhaps its most significant achievement was the introduction of Spectre, the world’s first ultra-luxury electric super coupé that begins the marque’s transition to a fully electric product portfolio by the end of 2030.

“Leading Rolls-Royce for almost 14 years has been the greatest privilege and pleasure of my professional life,” comments Müller-Ötvös. “To have grown the company and its world-class people to the position it is in today, at the pinnacle of the luxury industry, has been a remarkable adventure.”

“I am proud of the role my exceptional team and I have played in contributing significantly to the UK economy and to the global recognition of Britain’s ability to produce the world’s best luxury products,” he added.

Oliver Zipse, BMW Group Chief Executive, said, “Rolls-Royce Motor Cars is a jewel in the crown of our organization. Torsten’s outstanding leadership, unswerving commitment, clear vision, and exceptional ability to build a strong, focused team have helped make Rolls-Royce the world-class luxury brand it is today. We wish him the very best for his future endeavors.”

The successor

Chris Brownridge joins Rolls-Royce Motor Cars from his current role as CEO of BMW UK, a position he has held since 2021. Oliver Zipse commented on his appointment, “Chris Brownridge is a hugely experienced professional with a tremendous track record. He will build on Rolls-Royce’s success and guide Rolls-Royce Motor Cars onward into its all-electric future.”

Brownridge spent almost 30 years with the BMW Group, starting as a graduate in 1995. Before his current position as CEO, Chris has been a member of the UK Board in various roles since 2011, including Sales Director BMW UK and BMW UK Marketing and MINI Regional Director for the UK and Ireland.

“I’m fortunate to be following Torsten as CEO,” Brownridge reacted. “Through his vision and ambition for the brand over 14 years, Rolls-Royce is today in a powerful position and full of confidence for the future. I’m delighted to be part of the Rolls‑Royce story and look forward to embracing the challenges and opportunities ahead for us all.”