New leader at BMW for important region

Jean-Philippe Parain is the new Senior Vice-President Sales Regions Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa for BMW.

BM Wpresident

He will succeed Hendrik von Kuenheim, who took the decision to retire after 37 years at the BMW Group.

Jean-Philippe will be taking over the new role from 1 April 2022. He has a wealth of experience since he joined the company in 1997 at BMW France in the marketing department and held several senior management roles, including President and CEO of BMW Group Belux, Head of MINI Europe and Senior Vice-President Sales Region Europe.

Jean-Philippe says it is an honour and privilege to take on the new role. “This is a vital region for our industry, with a very promising potential as we continue to lead the future of mobility. I am looking forward to work with all our colleagues and partners and to continue winning the hearts of our customers in order to sustain our strong position in the region.”

Pieter Nota, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, Customer, Brands, Sales, said: “We are excited to welcome Jean-Philippe Parain into his new role and look forward to the continued success of the BMW Group across the region. As former head of Europe, Jean-Philippe is a well-known member of our team and brings a proven history of excellence and a vast portfolio of experience to his new role.

“Hendrik von Kuenheim combines passion and professionalism like few others and was the driving force behind the company's success in the Region Asia-Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa. He has successfully led his team through a rapidly evolving era in the industry. We wish him a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement,” says Pieter.

More Industry News stories

The Toyota Starlet goes from zero to hero

The Toyota Starlet goes from zero to hero

The Toyota Starlet has improved from zero to a four-star rating for adult occupant protection in Global NCAP's latest #SaferCarsForAfrica crash test results. This follows a safety upgrade to make six airbags a standard fit.

  • 3 September 2026
Ford SA marks second century with bold industry manifesto

Ford SA marks second century with bold industry manifesto

Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa has released a new corporate manifesto that sets out its commitment to the country, its customers and its dealer network, alongside a renewed push to champion industrialisation as central to South Africa's future.

  • 4 September 2026
Vehicle sales - the winning streak continues

Vehicle sales - the winning streak continues

South Africa's new vehicle market sustained strong momentum in August 2026, with aggregate sales increasing by 11,4% year-on-year to 57 898 units, says the Automotive Business Councill | naamsa.

  • 2 September 2026