Bentley Motors Welcomes Frank-Steffen Walliser As New CEO To Drive Electrification

Published: Tuesday, May 28, 2024, 19:36 [IST]

Frank-Steffen Walliser will take over as Chairman and CEO of Bentley on July 1, succeeding Adrian Hallmark, who left the British luxury brand in March. Walliser is moving from Porsche, where he has had a distinguished career since joining in 1995. His appointment was announced by Audi CEO Gernot Döllner on May 28, 2024.

Walliser brings extensive experience in the luxury automotive segment, having led significant projects at Porsche. He was the overall project leader for the Porsche 918 Spyder super sports car and later headed the 911 and 718 product lines. Since 2022, he has been responsible for overall vehicle development at Porsche.

Gernot Döllner expressed confidence in Walliser's capabilities, stating, "With his distinct technological expertise and experience in the luxury segment, Walliser will successfully lead Bentley into the electrified future." Döllner also highlighted Walliser's entrepreneurial experience and his role in bringing brand-defining models to the streets at Porsche.

Walliser himself acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting the ongoing transformation of the automotive industry. "I am approaching this job with great respect and looking forward to having a team in Crewe that has shown impressive performance over the last few years," he said. He emphasized his commitment to maintaining Bentley's standards in the luxury segment.

Walliser's career at Porsche began after he studied mechanical engineering with a focus on combustion engines and technology management. In 2010, he became the overall project leader for the development of the Porsche 918 Spyder. By 2014, he had taken on the role of Head of Motorsport before managing the 911 and 718 product lines starting in 2019.

His most recent role at Porsche involved overseeing vehicle architecture and characteristics, a position he has held since 2022. This extensive background equips him well for his new responsibilities at Bentley.

Bentley's Future

Bentley Motors is renowned as one of the most sought-after luxury car brands globally. The company’s headquarters in Crewe is home to all its operations, including design, R&D, engineering, and production of its five model lines: Continental GT, Continental GT Convertible, Flying Spur, Bentayga, and Bentayga EWB.

The combination of fine craftsmanship and advanced technology is a hallmark of Bentley's approach to high-value British manufacturing. The company employs around 4,000 people at its Crewe facility.

Walliser's appointment is seen as a strategic move to steer Bentley through its next phase of growth and innovation. His experience with high-performance vehicles and his leadership skills are expected to be invaluable as Bentley navigates the evolving landscape of the luxury automotive market.