From Engineer to Executive: The Rise of Gernot Döllner
Born in 1969 in Bückeburg, Germany, Gernot Döllner pursued mechanical engineering and vehicle technology at the Technical University of Braunschweig and the University of Waterloo in Canada. He began his career at Volkswagen AG in 1993 as a doctoral student and systems analyst. His trajectory included significant roles at Porsche, where he led the development of the Panamera series and contributed to the Porsche 918 Spyder project according to the Audi Media Centre.
Ascending to Audi's Helm
On September 1, 2023, Döllner was appointed Chairman of the Board of Management of AUDI AG, succeeding Markus Duesmann. His appointment was seen as a strategic move to strengthen Audi's product strategy and market position.

Gernot Döllner
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Driving Audi's Electric Transformation
Under Döllner's leadership, Audi has embarked on an ambitious plan to introduce over 20 new models by the end of 2025, aiming to electrify all core segments by 2027. The company has allocated €41 billion for investments between 2024 and 2028, focusing on electric vehicles and digitization.
Emphasizing Innovation and Efficiency
Döllner has emphasized the importance of innovation, stating, "Our goal is not only to be on an equal footing, but also to get ahead of competitors." He has also focused on organizational restructuring to enhance productivity and flexibility at Audi's German sites.
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A Visionary Leader for a New Era
Gernot Döllner's tenure as CEO marks a pivotal chapter in Audi's history. His engineering background, combined with strategic foresight, positions him to navigate the challenges of the automotive industry's transition to electric mobility. As Audi accelerates its electrification efforts, Döllner's leadership will be instrumental in shaping the brand's future.