New appointment at VW Commercial Vehicles

Volkswagen Group Africa (VGA) has appointed Ryan Blumrick as the new Head of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.

BSN Avw Ryan1

Ryan has nearly 20 years of experience in the Volkswagen Group gained in South Africa, China, and Japan. He joined Volkswagen South Africa in 2006 and went on to hold multiple leadership positions within Audi South Africa in sales and marketing.

He later served as Head of Regional Sales and Marketing Strategy at SAIC Volkswagen Shanghai before moving to Japan, where he most recently held the position of Marketing Director for Audi Japan.

In his new role, Ryan aims to strengthen the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, elevate customer‑centricity, and bring global best practices into the African market. His vision includes providing African countries with market specific product solutions and leveraging international insights to unlock new growth opportunities.

“We are confident that Ryan’s extensive global experience and proven leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles in the African markets where it has presence,” says Niels Wichmann, acting Director of Sales and Marketing, Volkswagen Group Africa.

More Industry News stories

April new vehicle sales defy economic pressures

April new vehicle sales defy economic pressures

New vehicle sales in 2026 continued their positive trend in April, with the 47 979 units sold marking the best April figure since 2013. This represents a remarkable performance by local automotive retailers despite a host of economic headwinds and a challenging trading environment.

  • 5 May 2026
South Africa’s vehicle market holds firm

South Africa’s vehicle market holds firm

April 2026 marked a turning point in South Africa’s economic landscape, as global energy markets were jolted by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, according to naamsa | The Automotive Business Council.

  • 5 May 2026
Audi’s Q9 gamble as US tariff threat looms

Audi’s Q9 gamble as US tariff threat looms

Audi is preparing to roll out its biggest SUV yet in the United States (US) this summer, betting that demand for high-end, three-row models will hold up even as trade tensions threaten to raise import costs.

  • 5 May 2026