Wilfried Aulbur, MD & CEO, Mercedes Benz India, resigns

Dr.Wilfried Aulbur, MD CEO Mercedes Benz India

Mercedes Benz India Managing Director and CEO, Dr. Wilfried Aulbur has resigned. A move that has surprised the Indian automobile industry. Mr. Aulbur has put in papers to pursue a new career within the country, the company said on Sunday.

A German by birth, Mr. Aulbur did his doctoral and post-doctoral studies in physics in the U.S. For a short period, he was with Mercedes-Benz India in the early 80s. Later, in 2005, he joined the company again as India Head.

Mr. Aulbur, who would have completed five years as the India Head of the German car-maker by the end of 2010, is likely to move out of the automobile sector, according to industry sources.

“With the construction of the new factory and several additional projects close to approval, Mr. Aulbur has decided to accept a new challenge outside of the Daimler group within India,” the company said in a statement.

“Aulbur will remain with Mercedes-Benz India till a successor is identified to ensure a smooth transition,” it added.

“During his tenure, Mercedes-Benz established its presence in the truck and the bus business and significantly expanded its research and sourcing operations in India,” the statement said.

Industry sources said Mr. Aulbur resigned two days ago and will completely move out of the automobile sector, though he will remain in India.

“After staying five years in India, he is in love with the country. He has, in fact, married Rekha Srinivasan — an Indian woman. He will most probably stay here forever,” a source close to the development said.

News courtesy: The Hindu

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