Mercedes-Benz has announced that Jörg Burzer will succeed Markus Schäfer as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Head of Development & Purchasing, effective December 1, 2025. This leadership transition marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing transformation towards agile and innovative vehicle development.
Leadership Transition at Mercedes-Benz
Markus Schäfer, who has been with Mercedes-Benz for over 30 years, will retire upon the expiration of his contract. During his tenure, Schäfer played a pivotal role in steering the company through a comprehensive transformation, focusing on electrification and digital integration within the product portfolio. His strategic vision has left an indelible mark on Mercedes-Benz’s technological advancements.
Jörg Burzer, currently serving as the Head of Production, Quality & Supply Chain Management, brings extensive experience to his new role. Since joining the company in 1999, Burzer has held various international management positions, contributing significantly to the optimization of Mercedes-Benz’s global production network, which encompasses over 30 locations worldwide.
Strategic Vision for the Future
The supervisory board emphasizes that this leadership change aligns with Mercedes-Benz’s strategy to maintain a balance of experience and innovation within its top management. The appointment of Burzer is expected to foster closer integration between production and development, enhancing the company’s ability to respond swiftly to dynamic market challenges.
Michael Schiebe, currently Chairman of the Board of Management of Mercedes-AMG and Head of the Top End Vehicle Group, will assume Burzer’s current position. Schiebe’s extensive experience within the company positions him well to continue driving excellence in production and supply chain management.
Conclusion
As Mercedes-Benz continues to navigate the evolving automotive landscape, the appointment of Jörg Burzer as CTO underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, efficiency, and leadership in the industry. With a focus on agile development and seamless integration of production processes, Mercedes-Benz is poised to maintain its position at the forefront of automotive technology.