Sales are not going so well for Audi in some important foreign markets, both for combustion engines and electric cars. Ingolstadt is now responding and has announced a series of management changes in key markets, including China and North America.
In its announcement, Audi refers to a ‘coordinated management rotation’ designed to ensure a smooth transition and support the brand’s strategic orientation. According to its own statements, Audi intends to “consistently continue its model offensive in China and the USA this year”.
“Several new model generations developed specifically for the Chinese market will be launched. In the USA, the SUV portfolio will be comprehensively updated,” announced the Ingolstadt-based company.
New model launches under other managers
These market launches in the aforementioned markets will be accompanied by new managers. The most important changes are that, effective 1 April 2026, Daniel Weissland will take over as President of FAW Audi Sales Company in China.
Weissland will be succeeded as President of Audi of America and Head of Audi North America Region by Vito Paladino, currently President and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada and President of Audi Canada.
Edgar Estrada, President of the Volkswagen brand in Canada, will additionally take on the role of President and CEO of Volkswagen Group Canada. Khaled Soussi, currently responsible for commercial strategy and customer experience at Seat, will take over the management of Audi Canada.
Michael Arndt, currently President of FAW Audi Sales Company, will move to Managing Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars in Korea. And finally, on 1 June, Matthias Schepers, currently President of Volkswagen Group Japan and Managing Director of Audi Japan, will take on the role of Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Audi China.
“We are decisively strengthening the Audi brand and our sales organization in our core regions. With our model initiative and these high-performing leaders, Audi is well positioned to enhance its competitiveness in both North America and China,” Marco Schubert, Member of the Board of Management for Sales and Marketing, commented.
