Dr. Werner Tietz is set to take on the role of Head of Group Research and Development at Volkswagen Group starting July 1, 2025. This new responsibility will be in addition to his current position as Member of the Executive Board for Research and Development at SEAT S.A. He will succeed Dr. Michael Steiner, who will assume the additional role of Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche AG while continuing his work as Member of the Executive Board for Research and Development at Porsche AG.
Volkswagen Group CEO Dr. Oliver Blume praised Tietz's extensive experience within the company, stating, "With his vision, technical expertise, and more than three decades of experience within the Volkswagen Group, Werner Tietz has played a key role in shaping the innovative strength of brands such as Audi, Porsche, Bentley and SEAT/CUPRA." Blume highlighted Tietz's contributions to sustainable materials and electrification strategy.
Blume also commended Steiner's impact on Volkswagen Group's technological advancements: "With his deep technological understanding and strategic foresight, Michael Steiner has made a significant contribution to positioning the Volkswagen Group as a future-oriented mobility group." He noted Steiner's work in automotive software development and global technology partnerships.
Tietz holds a doctorate in engineering from RWTH Aachen University and has been with Volkswagen since 1994. His career includes roles at Audi, Porsche, Bentley, and SEAT/CUPRA. Notably, he contributed to Audi vehicle interiors and participated in developing Porsche's Taycan concept.
Steiner began his career at Mercedes-Benz before joining Porsche in 2002. Since then, he has overseen projects like the Panamera series development. In 2016, he became Member of the Executive Board for Research and Development at Porsche AG.