Volkswagen Supervisory Board Welcomes Susanne Wiegand as Successor

Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft has announced a significant transition within its Supervisory Board, with Susanne Wiegand set to succeed Marianne Heiß effective July 5, 2025, following Heiß’s resignation on July 4, 2025. This change, disclosed by the company from its headquarters in Wolfsburg, marks a pivotal moment for the board as it seeks to enhance its governance structure and strategic direction.

Marianne Heiß, who has served on the Supervisory Board since February 14, 2018, has been instrumental in various committees, including the Audit Committee. Her extensive expertise in corporate management, finance, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues has been acknowledged by Hans Dieter Pötsch, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, who expressed gratitude for her valuable contributions during her tenure.

Susanne Wiegand brings over 20 years of leadership experience in international industries such as defense, engineering, and shipbuilding. Her background includes substantial involvement in growth strategies, initial public offerings (IPOs), corporate transformations, and risk management, which positions her as a formidable leader for the Volkswagen board. Wiegand is expected to chair the Audit Committee, where her experience will be critical in navigating the complexities of Volkswagen's financial oversight.

The shift comes at a time when Volkswagen is undergoing significant changes in its operational and strategic framework, particularly in response to the evolving automotive landscape, which increasingly emphasizes sustainability and digitalization. According to the latest report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), electric vehicles are projected to account for 30% of global car sales by 2030, underscoring the urgency for companies like Volkswagen to adapt swiftly.

Industry experts have varied perspectives on this transition. Dr. Elena Schmidt, an automotive analyst at the Center for Automotive Research, stated, “Wiegand’s appointment is a positive step for Volkswagen. Her diverse experience in other sectors will bring fresh insights into the automotive industry, which is undergoing rapid transformation.” Conversely, some critics argue that the board requires a more diverse representation, particularly in terms of gender and ethnic backgrounds, to truly reflect the global market's dynamics.

In the wake of this change, Volkswagen faces the challenge of balancing innovation with regulatory compliance. The company has committed to a robust sustainability strategy, aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050. As noted by Dr. Michael Becker, Professor of Business Ethics at the University of Mannheim, “Leadership changes at this level can either bolster or hinder a company’s strategic initiatives. It will be essential for Wiegand to quickly align with Volkswagen's sustainability goals.”

As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the significance of strong leadership and strategic foresight cannot be overstated. With Wiegand at the helm of the Audit Committee and her proven track record in risk management, stakeholders will be closely watching how she navigates these challenges and steers Volkswagen towards its ambitious objectives.

In conclusion, the appointment of Susanne Wiegand to the Volkswagen Supervisory Board heralds a new chapter for the company. The leadership transition reflects broader trends in corporate governance, emphasizing the need for experienced leaders who can effectively guide organizations through periods of transformation. As Volkswagen prepares for the future, it remains to be seen how these changes will influence its strategic direction and operational effectiveness in an increasingly competitive market.