Executive Career Appointments and Promotions, South Africa – Mercedes-Benz South Africa announces major changes at its leadership as Mark Raine steps down this August from his role as the co-chief executive officer and executive director at Mercedes-Benz Cars.
He will be replaced by Claudius Steinhoff, who is currently the CEO and head of marketing and sales for Mercedes-Benz Singapore.
Raine will be taking up an opportunity to oversee the responsibility the role of Direct Sales, Omni-Channel Commerce & Data Management in Stuttgart, Germany – starting September 2024
“Mark’s three-year tenure with us has been nothing short of exemplary, characterised by unwavering dedication and visionary leadership. We wish Mark all the best in his new position and thank him for steering our market through challenges and transformations, with his international business acumen,” said Wilfried Porth, chairman of board of Mercedes-Benz South Africa Limited..
Steinhoff started his career with Mercedes-Benz in 2008 as a student at the Cooperative State University Baden-Wuerttemberg. Since 2011 he has held different roles in treasury, product management and as executive assistant to the head of region overseas.
In 2023, he completed his Global Executive MBA program at INSEAD Business School in Singapore. In 2020, Steinhoff was appointed president and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Singapore (MBSG) . During his tenure, MBSG achieved remarkable results, notably the number one position in the total market in 2022 and the position as the leading luxury brand in 2023.
The company also successfully introduced fully electric models across every segment it serves locally, while focusing heavily on the implementation of impactful and innovative measures around the strategic pillars: Desirability, Electrification, Digitization and Sustainability.
“It is my pleasure to welcome Claudius Steinhoff to the leadership team at Mercedes-Benz South Africa. Claudius brings vast experience and knowledge which will ensure continuity in advancing the strategic objectives for Mercedes-Benz Cars locally. Together with the Board of Mercedes-Benz South Africa, we look forward to the incredible work he will steer within the Sales, Marketing, Customer Services and Network Management portfolios,” Wilfried added.
Commenting on his appointment, Steinhoff said, “I am honored to join the talented team at Mercedes-Benz South Africa and am eager to partner with our team and retail partners to deliver remarkable Mercedes-Moments for our customers.”
The changes come just months after another key leadership shakeup within the group in July, with Natasha Jardim appointed as the managing executive of Mercedes-Benz Vans.
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