Industry Veteran from Porsche to Lead Bentley into Electrified Future
(Crewe, 28 May 2024) – Frank-Steffen Walliser is set to become the new Chairman and CEO of Bentley Motors, effective July 1. Walliser will succeed Adrian Hallmark, who departed the British luxury brand in March.
Walliser’s appointment comes with high expectations, as stated by Audi CEO Gernot Döllner: “With his distinct technological expertise and experience in the luxury segment, Walliser will successfully lead Bentley into the electrified future.”
Walliser joins Bentley from Porsche, where he has had a distinguished career since 1995. His extensive experience includes leading the development of the iconic Porsche 918 Spyder and heading Porsche Motorsport. Since 2019, he has overseen the 911 and 718 product lines and more recently has been responsible for overall vehicle development.
“In Frank-Steffen Walliser, Bentley is getting an experienced engineer with distinct product and technology expertise and entrepreneurial experience who brought brand-defining models to the streets at Porsche, including the Porsche 918 Spyder. On Bentley’s ongoing path toward becoming the leading provider in the luxury segment, Frank-Steffen Walliser’s many years of experience and knowledge of the luxury segment will be invaluable,” said Gernot Döllner, Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, who oversees the Brand Group Progressive, which includes Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley, and Ducati within the Volkswagen Group.
Walliser expressed his enthusiasm about the new role: “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. The continuing transformation of the automotive industry will be a major task for Bentley as well, a task that I am happy to take on with the team. I am convinced Bentley will continue to set standards in the luxury segment in the future.”
Walliser’s academic background is in mechanical engineering, with a focus on combustion engines and technology management. His move to Bentley is seen as a strategic step to enhance Bentley’s position as a leader in the luxury automotive market, particularly as it navigates the transition to electrification.
