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Change at the top as BMW doubles down on Neue Klasse
German automaker BMW has named Milan Nedeljkovic as its next CEO, a leadership change that coincides with the company’s most ambitious product and manufacturing push in decades: the rollout of the Neue Klasse electric platform. The handover from Oliver Zipse is scheduled to take place at BMW’s annual general meeting in May 2026, when Zipse will step down after a 35-year career with the company.
From trainee to the boardroom
Nedeljkovic, 56, is no outsider. Born in Serbia, he joined BMW as a trainee in 1993 and climbed the ranks through key production and plant leadership roles, including posts at Oxford, Leipzig and Munich. He has been a member of BMW’s board since 2019 and currently heads the production division, giving him direct responsibility for manufacturing, quality and plant operations across BMW’s global network.
BMW has confirmed that Nedeljkovic’s appointment will run until 2031, signaling a long-term mandate to oversee manufacturing excellence and the transition to battery-electric vehicles (BEVs).
What the new CEO inherits
The incoming CEO takes charge at a pivotal moment. Neue Klasse represents BMW’s strategic pivot to a new generation of EVs with an emphasis on efficient production, advanced battery technology, and software-defined vehicle architectures. While the program aims to strengthen BMW’s position in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market, production scale-up, supplier stability and cost control will be top priorities.
Key priorities for the new CEO:
- Execute a smooth ramp-up of Neue Klasse manufacturing and ensure consistent quality across plants.
- Secure battery supply and streamline procurement to protect margins.
- Balance ecological targets with financial performance amid rising competition in EVs.
- Accelerate software and digital features to match rivals in connected-car technologies.
Leadership style and industry expectations
Dr. Nicolas Peter, Chairman of BMW’s Supervisory Board, praised Nedeljkovic’s strategic vision and hands-on leadership, noting his ability to unite teams behind common goals and manage resources responsibly — both financial and ecological. In a time of industry transformation, BMW expects a CEO who can outthink and out-execute competitors across EVs, software and global manufacturing.
Oliver Zipse’s retirement closes a chapter marked by initiatives like the NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy and a stronger electrification roadmap. Zipse, who also began his career at BMW as a trainee, steered the company through early EV investments and a renewed focus on product strategy.
Market context
BMW’s management change comes as competitors intensify their EV efforts. Established luxury rivals and new entrants alike are competing on range, charging speeds, software features and economies of scale. For BMW, Neue Klasse is a bet on combining classic brand strengths — driving dynamics and premium design — with modern electric powertrains and scalable manufacturing.
Highlights:
- Succession confirmed for May 2026 AGM.
- Milan Nedeljkovic will lead through 2031 under current terms.
- Primary mission: deliver Neue Klasse at scale while safeguarding profitability and sustainability.
Nedeljkovic’s deep production experience gives him a distinct advantage in tackling the practical challenges of EV mass production, from plant logistics to corporate quality. How effectively he balances innovation, cost control and brand DNA will shape BMW’s competitive position in the electric era.
This leadership transition is as much about people and culture as it is about technology: BMW is betting that an insider with manufacturing credibility can steer Neue Klasse from concept to profitable reality while keeping the marque’s driving heritage alive.
Source: autoevolution
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