Volkswagen has appointed Marco Schubert as the new head of North America, effective October 1, 2026. Schubert will take over from Kjell Gruner, who is leaving for new opportunities. Currently an Audi Board Member responsible for Sales, Marketing, and After Sales, Schubert will oversee the company’s business operations in this pivotal market, reporting directly to CEO Oliver Blume.
Blume emphasized the importance of North America, describing it as the Group’s “most important growth market.” With recent challenges, including tariff issues impacting profitability, Schubert’s role is seen as crucial for reinvigorating VW’s presence in the region, where sales fell 13% last year, and market share is currently at 4%, below the target of 10%.
In addition to Schubert’s appointment, there will be a series of management changes: Martin Sander will replace Schubert as Audi’s Board Member for Sales, and other leadership shifts will occur across different brands within the Group. Schubert brings over 25 years of international experience within Volkswagen, having previously managed sales in various regions, including China and Europe.
