Who is Alan Bateson?
Bateson has been a key part of the Volkswagen Group's efforts in Ireland for 17 years, and is currently still the director of Volkswagen passenger car operations, as well as the former head of Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles.
Bateson is retaining his position as director of Volkswagen passenger cars in Ireland and taking on the overall group reins, overseeing all the group's brands - Skoda, Audi, Cupra, Seat, and Volkswagen itself.
Is Bateson taking on a big challenge?
He certainly is. As Volkswagen Group Ireland admits, the appointment comes "at a pivotal time for the automotive industry, as the sector continues to undergo significant transformation driven by changing customer expectations, technological innovation and the transition to electric mobility.” Globally, Volkswagen is undertaking a massive programme of cost cuts and job losses, and while the group's position in Ireland is successful, that won't insulate Irish operations from issues elsewhere.
What has Alan Bateson himself said?
Commenting on his appointment, Bateson said: "It is a great privilege to take on the role of CEO of Volkswagen Group Ireland. Having built my career within the Irish motor industry, I know what an honour it is to lead a business with such strong brands, talented people and trusted retail partners. My focus is clear: to continue to grow, to lead in mobility, and to deliver an outstanding and seamless experience for every customer.
"Across every part of the business, our people bring passion, expertise and an unwavering commitment to our customers and brands. Our retailers, many of whom have represented Volkswagen Group brands for generations, are fundamental to our success. Those long-standing partnerships are built on a shared commitment to deliver exceptional customer experiences. They remain one of our greatest competitive advantages and play a vital role in bringing our brands to life in communities across Ireland. We have a strong foundation built on exceptional people, world-class brands, committed retail partners and a relentless focus on the customer. I look forward to building on that momentum together.”
Volkswagen Group Ireland Chairman Anton Vidal Tost said: "I would also like to congratulate Alan on his appointment. Alan has successfully led the Volkswagen Passenger Cars brand in Ireland over the past three years, delivering consistent market share growth and establishing Volkswagen as Ireland's leading BEV brand.”
Can Volkswagen reclaim its former top spot in Irish sales?
Overall, Volkswagen Group Ireland sells more cars here than any other group, thanks to its portfolio of brands and the huge recent success of Skoda. While there are some key new Volkswagen models coming soon, including the all-important Volkswagen ID. Polo and ID. Cross EVs, our view is that it will take a big new-model push to get Volkswagen past Toyota and back into the No. 1 spot again. Perhaps Skoda, with its current sales momentum, has a better chance of being the Volkswagen Group's number one offering in Ireland? Time will tell.
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