Martin Sander is set to assume the role of Board Member for Sales, Marketing, and After Sales at Volkswagen Passenger Cars starting July 1, succeeding Imelda Labbé, who has led the department for the past two years. Sander, transitioning from the Ford Motor Company to Wolfsburg, will directly report to Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer.
In a statement, Volkswagen CEO Thomas Schäfer expressed confidence in Sander’s appointment, highlighting his extensive experience and leadership in sales. Schäfer emphasised Sander’s role in strategically positioning Volkswagen’s sales organisation for future sustainability, particularly in marketing and after-sales business. Schäfer also commended Labbé’s achievements, noting her contributions to increasing market share and enhancing Volkswagen’s brand image through initiatives like the Energise project.
Martin Sander brings a wealth of experience to Volkswagen, having served as Chairman of the Board of Management of Ford-Werke GmbH and General Manager Ford Model e for Ford of Europe. His responsibilities included spearheading the development of electric vehicles and software services for connected vehicles.
With over 25 years in the automotive industry, Sander held various management positions at Audi AG in North America and Europe, including Senior Vice President of Sales for Europe, Germany, Americas, and the UK. A mechanical engineering graduate from the Technical University of Braunschweig, Sander’s career underscores his expertise in sales and strategic leadership.
Imelda Labbé, the outgoing Board Member, boasts over 35 years of experience in the automotive industry, with notable roles at Opel, General Motors (GM), and Volkswagen Group. Labbé’s tenure at Volkswagen witnessed significant milestones, including her contributions to after-sales and business development.
Labbé, holding degrees in business administration and a Master of Science in Management from Stanford University, has played a pivotal role in shaping Volkswagen’s trajectory. As she passes the torch to Martin Sander, Labbé’s legacy of leadership and strategic vision remains integral to Volkswagen’s continued success.