I am currently the Department Manager Field Technical Services, for MBUSA (Mercedes-Benz USA). I have joined MBUSA in July of 2016 just prior to the Headquarters move from Montvale NJ to Atlanta GA. My career in the automotive industry began in 1974 as technician apprentice in Germany, after graduating in 1977; I worked as a technician and instructor for the German Military. In the summer of 1986, I came to the United States and began working in a small Independent workshop in Anniston Alabama. Since than I have worked for Audi, BMW, Porsche, Land Rover, and Volkswagen dealerships in roles from technician to Service Manager. In 2003, I transitioned to the wholesale side of the business as a Field Technical Specialist for Audi. During that time, I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Global Business from the University of Phoenix. With that, I moved in the aftersales side and held roles form after-sales manager to finally the General Manager for the Pacific Region with Volkswagen. When I joined MBUSA in 2016, I used my knowledge and skills gained on the operational and technical side of the business to find ways of improving technical service provided to our dealer network. Having worked on both sides, I quickly included soft-skills training in addition to the technical training to my team providing them with the tools to support dealer’s workshops beyond simply technical support.

Over my time in various roles, I have gained skills that supported me with project planning, motivating people, people development, focusing on what can be influenced, budget planning and management, presenting complex business plans and cases. Most importantly, to focus on the bigger picture and to execute, and to overcome challenges quickly. On a personal level I, strongly believe in staying firm on my values of integrity, and to care about the people I work with. These values helped me to advance my personal career and in addition, allowed me to develop and guide many of my teammates to advance in their professional careers.