There is a change at the helm of affairs at Volkswagen India. The German carmaker has appointed Steffen Knapp as the head of its Indian operations. He replaces Michael Mayer, who took up the role of head of sales and marketing for Volkswagen Passenger Cars – China a few months ago.

Mayer, who was appointed director, Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, on June 1, 2014, spent a little over three years in India. During his stint in India, Mayer oversaw the launch of the new Vento, Cross Polo and the made-for-India Ameo compact sedan, which had its world premiere at Auto Expo 2016. In terms of market share, while Volkswagen India made little headway in domestic sales, export numbers grew 166 percent over three years.

Steffen Knapp (48) has held leadership roles at brands like SEAT and Ford in different parts of Europe and contributed to  significant achievements made by the brands in their respective markets. In his previous roles, he has been responsible for several strategic and managerial roles. Mr Knapp holds a degree in Managerial Economics from European Business School Schloß Reichartshausen (EBS), Oestrich-Winkel, Germany and American Graduate School of International Management, Arizona/USA.

In his new role, he will be reporting to Thierry Lespiaucq, managing director, Volkswagen Group Sales India and will be responsible for driving the passenger car business in India.