Gurpratap Boparai, Managing Director of Skoda Auto Volkswagen India (SAVWIPL) has stepped down from his position, which he had taken charge on April 2, 2018. SAVWIPL has officially his resignation with effect from January 1, 2022. Christian Cahn von Seelen will take interim charge of the VW Group’s Indian operations from January 1, 2022, in his capacity as Chairman of SAVWIPL. The successor to Gurpratap Boparai will be announced shortly.  

Commenting on the resignation, Thomas Schaefer, Chairman, Skoda Auto said, “It is with deep regret that we accept the resignation of Gurpratap. I would like to thank him for leading the Group’s India operations through a complex merger, and for his outstanding role in ensuring that the Group’s important INDIA 2.0 project was on schedule with only minimal disruptions, despite the challenges that arose from the pandemic. The seamless execution of the merger and the success of the products launched under the project is a testimony to his leadership and deep understanding of all aspects of the automotive business and of the evolving trends in the auto industry."

Schafer, who will switch over to head up Volkswagen next year as part of a major reshuffle of the Volkswagen Group management team, added: "We thank him for his contribution and wish him all the best in his future endeavours. I am confident that the leadership team that successfully executed the INDIA 2.0 project under him, is well-equipped to take the company to the next level, in line with our India strategy.” 

“It has been my honour and privilege to lead this fantastic team at SAVWIPL. This was a very difficult decision. I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and confident that the team will continue to innovate, excel and deliver beyond its commitments. I would like to thank Thomas Schaefer and Christian Cahn von Seelen and the team at HQ for their support and commitment to the India operations. The INDIA 2.0 project was executed on time thanks to their endeavours, at prioritizing the Indian operations especially in the face of the recent supply chain disruptions.” said Gurpratap Boparai,

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