BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse Steps Down After 35-Year Tenure, Succeeded by Milan Nedeljković

[Leadership Change] BMW Chairman Oliver Zipse has officially stepped down, succeeded by Milan Nedeljković.

Key Development: Zipse Concludes 35-Year BMW Career, Officially Departs on May 14, 2026

Oliver Zipse has led the BMW Group since 2019, driving the 'Neue Klasse' platform, a multi-powertrain strategy, and deep localization initiatives. Under his leadership, company revenue grew from €104.2 billion to €142.4 billion (2019–2024), with net profit reaching €7.7 billion.

Strategic Foundation: China Collaboration Upgraded to Joint R&D and Supply Chain Decarbonization

Zipse was one of the most frequent German automotive CEOs visiting China, making four trips to China in 2025. He championed advancing the 'In China, for China' strategy into its 2.0 phase and opposed the EU’s proposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, even initiating legal action against them.

Industry Impact: Nedeljković Takes Over Until 2031, Continuing Electrification and Global Expansion

Incoming Chairman Milan Nedeljković, previously responsible for production, will now lead the implementation of BMW’s largest-ever electrification transformation.