(Crewe, 28 May 2024) Frank-Steffen Walliser will transition from Porsche to Bentley, assuming the roles of Chairman and CEO starting July 1. He succeeds Adrian Hallmark, who departed the esteemed British luxury marque in March.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner expressed confidence in Walliser’s appointment, stating, “With his distinct technological expertise and experience in the luxury segment, Walliser will successfully lead Bentley into the electrified future.”
Walliser’s move to Bentley is seen as a strategic step in Bentley’s journey toward becoming a leader in the luxury automotive sector. Döllner, who oversees the Brand Group Progressive—comprising Audi, Lamborghini, Bentley, and Ducati within the Volkswagen Group—highlighted Walliser’s impressive background. “Frank-Steffen Walliser is an experienced engineer with profound product and technology expertise. His entrepreneurial spirit and significant contributions at Porsche, including the creation of the Porsche 918 Spyder, make him an invaluable asset to Bentley as it continues to evolve,” Döllner added.
Walliser himself is enthusiastic about the new challenge. “I approach this role with great respect and am eager to work with the talented team in Crewe, who have shown remarkable performance in recent years. The ongoing transformation of the automotive industry presents significant opportunities for Bentley, and I am excited to lead the brand in setting new standards in the luxury segment,” he stated.
Walliser’s extensive career at Porsche began in 1995 after completing his studies in mechanical engineering with a focus on combustion engines and technology management. His notable achievements include leading the development of the innovative 918 Spyder super sports car in 2010. By 2014, he had established himself as Head of Motorsport and later took charge of the 911 and 718 product lines in 2019. Since 2022, he has overseen overall vehicle development, focusing on vehicle architecture and characteristics at Porsche.
With Walliser’s appointment, Bentley is poised to navigate the complexities of the automotive industry’s transformation, maintaining its commitment to luxury and innovation.
