Ola Källenius: Difference between revisions

The neutral encyclopedia of notable people
Content engine: create biography for Ola Källenius (2410 words)
 
Content engine: create biography for Ola Källenius (2639 words) [update]
 
Line 9: Line 9:
| children = 3
| children = 3
| occupation = Business executive
| occupation = Business executive
| known_for = Chairman and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group
| known_for = CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group
}}
}}


'''Sten Ola Källenius''' (born 11 June 1969) is a Swedish-German business executive who serves as the Chairman of the Board of Management and Chief Executive Officer of [[Mercedes-Benz Group]], one of the world's largest and most storied automotive companies. Appointed to the top role in May 2019, Källenius succeeded [[Dieter Zetsche]] and became the first non-German-born executive to lead the company in its history.<ref name="cnet">{{cite news |title=Dieter Zetsche to hand Daimler, Mercedes-Benz CEO reins to Ola Kallenius |url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/dieter-zetsche-daimler-mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius/ |work=CNET Roadshow |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Under his leadership, Mercedes-Benz has undergone a significant strategic transformation, pivoting toward electrification, luxury positioning, and sustainability initiatives. His tenure has been marked by both ambition and scrutiny, as the company navigates the complex transition from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles amid intensifying global competition. In 2023, Källenius obtained German citizenship, making him a dual Swedish-German national.<ref name="citizenship">{{cite web |title=Mercedes-boss Ola Kallenius now also a German citizen |url=https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/MERCEDES-BENZ-GROUP-AG-436541/news/Mercedes-boss-Ola-Kallenius-now-also-a-German-citizen-44302487/ |publisher=MarketScreener |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> In 2025, he was named to ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' magazine's list of the 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders.<ref name="time100">{{cite news |title=Ola Källenius: The 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders of 2025 |url=https://time.com/collections/time-100-climate-2025/7326573/ola-kallenius/ |work=Time |date=2025-10-30 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
'''Sten Ola Källenius''' (born 11 June 1969) is a Swedish-German business executive who serves as the Chairman of the Board of Management and Chief Executive Officer of [[Mercedes-Benz Group]]. He assumed the top leadership position at the German automaker in May 2019, succeeding [[Dieter Zetsche]], who had led the company for over a decade.<ref name="cnet">{{cite news |title=Ola Kallenius to succeed Dieter Zetsche as Daimler, Mercedes-Benz CEO |url=https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/dieter-zetsche-daimler-mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius/ |work=CNET Roadshow |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Källenius was the first non-German national to hold both positions at the helm of the storied Stuttgart-based automaker, a distinction he carried until obtaining German citizenship in 2023.<ref name="citizenship">{{cite web |title=Mercedes-boss Ola Källenius now also a German citizen |url=https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/MERCEDES-BENZ-GROUP-AG-436541/news/Mercedes-boss-Ola-Kallenius-now-also-a-German-citizen-44302487/ |publisher=MarketScreener |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> A graduate of the [[Stockholm School of Economics]], Källenius spent the entirety of his career within the Daimler and Mercedes-Benz organization, rising through leadership roles in engine development, motorsport operations, and sales before reaching the top executive post. Under his leadership, the company has undergone a significant strategic transformation focused on luxury positioning and electrification. In 2025, ''[[Time (magazine)|Time]]'' magazine named him to its list of the 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders.<ref name="time100">{{cite news |title=Ola Källenius: The 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders of 2025 |url=https://time.com/collections/time-100-climate-2025/7326573/ola-kallenius/ |work=Time |date=October 30, 2025 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


== Early Life ==
== Early Life ==


Ola Källenius was born on 11 June 1969 in [[Västervik]], a coastal city in southeastern Sweden.<ref name="mb-profile">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius — Board of Management |url=https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/tradition/ceos/kaellenius.html |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Group |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> He grew up in Sweden and has been reported to have a longstanding interest in sports, including a fondness for [[American football]].<ref name="stuttgarter">{{cite news |title=Designierter Daimler-Vorstandschef: Ola Källenius — Ein Faible für American Football |url=https://www.stuttgarter-zeitung.de/inhalt.designierter-daimler-vorstandschef-ola-kaellenius-ein-faible-fuer-american-football.34ab0b09-5f20-4dd7-8c41-9a85019aee74.html |work=Stuttgarter Zeitung |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Ola Källenius was born on 11 June 1969 in [[Västervik]], a coastal town in southeastern Sweden.<ref name="mbheritage">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius |url=https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/tradition/ceos/kaellenius.html |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Group |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Details about his family background and upbringing in Sweden remain limited in public records, though he has been noted for retaining a connection to his Swedish roots even as his career took him to Germany for most of his adult life. The ''Stuttgarter Zeitung'' reported that Källenius developed interests beyond the automotive world during his formative years, including a notable enthusiasm for [[American football]].<ref name="stzeitung">{{cite news |title=Designierter Daimler-Vorstandschef: Ola Källenius — ein Faible für American Football |url=https://www.stuttgarter-zeitung.de/inhalt.designierter-daimler-vorstandschef-ola-kaellenius-ein-faible-fuer-american-football.34ab0b09-5f20-4dd7-8c41-9a85019aee74.html |work=Stuttgarter Zeitung |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Although born and raised in Sweden, Källenius spent his professional career almost entirely within the Daimler corporate structure, which led him to spend extended periods in Germany and the United States. His Swedish origins made his eventual appointment as CEO of what was then Daimler AG a notable milestone in the company's history, as the firm had previously been led exclusively by German nationals. Källenius obtained German citizenship in 2023, becoming a dual Swedish-German citizen.<ref name="citizenship" />
Källenius grew up during a period of transformation in the global automotive industry, as European and Japanese manufacturers competed for dominance in engineering and design innovation. His eventual decision to pursue a career in the automobile sector took him from Sweden to Germany, where he would spend the majority of his professional life.
 
In 2023, after more than two decades of living and working in Germany, Källenius obtained German citizenship, making him a dual national of both Sweden and Germany.<ref name="citizenship" /> The acquisition of German citizenship was noted in the business press, given that Källenius had previously been recognized as the first non-German to lead Mercedes-Benz (then Daimler AG).


== Education ==
== Education ==


Källenius studied at the [[Stockholm School of Economics]] (Handelshögskolan i Stockholm), one of the leading business schools in the Nordic countries.<ref name="hhs">{{cite web |title=Pathfinders: Ola Källenius |url=https://www.hhs.se/en/outreach/alumni/pathfinders/ola-kallenius/ |publisher=Stockholm School of Economics |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The institution has produced numerous prominent business leaders and is recognized for its rigorous programs in economics and business administration. Källenius's education at the Stockholm School of Economics provided him with a foundation in business and management that would underpin his subsequent career in the automotive industry. He has been featured by the school as one of its notable alumni.<ref name="hhs" />
Källenius attended the [[Stockholm School of Economics]] (Handelshögskolan i Stockholm), one of the most selective business schools in the Nordic countries.<ref name="hhs">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius — Pathfinders |url=https://www.hhs.se/en/outreach/alumni/pathfinders/ola-kallenius/ |publisher=Stockholm School of Economics |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The institution, founded in 1909, has produced numerous leaders in Scandinavian business and finance. Källenius's education at the school provided a foundation in economics and business management that informed his later career in corporate leadership. His profile on the school's alumni page highlights him as one of its notable graduates who went on to lead a major global corporation.<ref name="hhs" />
 
Following his studies at the Stockholm School of Economics, Källenius pursued further academic work in finance and business administration before entering the automotive industry. His academic background distinguished him from several of his predecessors at Mercedes-Benz, many of whom had engineering degrees from German technical universities.


== Career ==
== Career ==


Ola Källenius's career has been defined by his long tenure within the Daimler (now Mercedes-Benz Group) corporate structure, where he rose through a series of increasingly senior positions spanning multiple divisions and geographies before ultimately being named the company's chief executive.
=== Early Career at Daimler-Benz ===
 
Källenius joined what was then [[Daimler-Benz]] in the mid-1990s, beginning a career that would span three decades within the same corporate organization. He entered the company during a period of major upheaval, as Daimler-Benz was preparing for its merger with [[Chrysler]] in 1998 to form [[DaimlerChrysler]]. His early roles within the company exposed him to both the operational and strategic dimensions of the automotive business.<ref name="daimlerprofile">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius — Board of Management |url=https://www.daimler.com/company/corporate-governance/board-of-management/kaellenius/ |publisher=Daimler AG |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
 
During the early phase of his career, Källenius held positions across multiple areas of the organization, including engine management and vehicle development. This cross-functional experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the company's operations, from the factory floor to strategic planning. His progression through the ranks was steady, and he came to be regarded within the company as a candidate for senior leadership relatively early in his tenure.


=== Early Career at Daimler ===
=== Mercedes-AMG and Motorsport ===


Källenius joined the Daimler group early in his career and held a variety of positions across the organization. His roles spanned different functional areas and international locations, giving him broad operational experience within the automotive conglomerate. Over the years, he gained exposure to key areas including sales, manufacturing, and strategic planning across multiple markets.<ref name="daimler-archive">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius — Board of Management |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190331045916/https://www.daimler.com/company/corporate-governance/board-of-management/kaellenius/ |publisher=Daimler AG |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
A significant chapter in Källenius's career was his involvement with [[Mercedes-AMG]], the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz. He served as the head of Mercedes-AMG, overseeing the division responsible for the brand's most powerful and performance-oriented vehicles.<ref name="amg">{{cite web |title=Tobias Moers wird neuer AMG-Chef |url=https://blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com/2013/09/tobias-moers-wird-neuer-amg-chef/ |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog |date=September 2013 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Under his leadership, AMG expanded its product portfolio and solidified its reputation within the high-performance luxury segment.


=== Leadership of Mercedes-AMG ===
Källenius also played a role in the company's motorsport operations, which have historically served as a testing ground for advanced automotive technologies and a marketing vehicle for the Mercedes-Benz brand. The connection between AMG and the broader Mercedes-Benz motorsport program gave Källenius insight into cutting-edge engineering and the competitive dynamics of global racing.


A significant phase of Källenius's career was his leadership of [[Mercedes-AMG]], the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz. He served as chairman of the management board of Mercedes-AMG GmbH, a position that placed him at the helm of the brand responsible for the company's most powerful and performance-oriented vehicles. Under his stewardship, AMG continued to expand its model lineup and its importance within the broader Mercedes-Benz portfolio. His tenure at AMG was widely noted within the industry, and when he moved on from the role, Tobias Moers was named as his successor.<ref name="amg">{{cite web |title=Tobias Moers wird neuer AMG-Chef |url=https://blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com/2013/09/tobias-moers-wird-neuer-amg-chef/ |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog |date=2013-09 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
When Tobias Moers succeeded Källenius as the head of AMG in 2013, Källenius moved on to other senior responsibilities within the Daimler organization.<ref name="amg" />


=== Board of Management: Research and Development ===
=== Board of Management and Rise to CEO ===


In February 2016, the supervisory board of Daimler AG appointed Källenius to the Board of Management with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.<ref name="vorstand">{{cite web |title=Aufsichtsrat bestellt Ola Källenius als Vorstand für Konzernforschung und Mercedes-Benz Cars Entwicklung |url=https://blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com/2016/02/aufsichtsrat-bestellt-ola-kaellenius-als-vorstand-fuer-konzernforschung-und-mercedes-benz-cars-entwicklung/ |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog |date=2016-02 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> This appointment elevated Källenius to one of the most critical roles within the company, as the head of research and development oversaw the technological direction of Mercedes-Benz's passenger car division. The position gave him direct oversight of the company's investments in electric drivetrains, autonomous driving technology, and digital connectivity — areas that would become central to his later strategic vision as CEO.
In February 2016, the Supervisory Board of Daimler AG appointed Källenius as a member of the Board of Management, with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.<ref name="boardappt">{{cite web |title=Aufsichtsrat bestellt Ola Källenius als Vorstand für Konzernforschung und Mercedes-Benz Cars Entwicklung |url=https://blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com/2016/02/aufsichtsrat-bestellt-ola-kaellenius-als-vorstand-fuer-konzernforschung-und-mercedes-benz-cars-entwicklung/ |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog |date=February 2016 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> In this role, he oversaw the research and development pipeline for the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, a responsibility that placed him at the center of the company's technology strategy during a period when the industry was rapidly shifting toward electrification, connectivity, and autonomous driving.


During this period, Källenius spoke publicly about the company's electrification ambitions. In an interview, he stated that Mercedes-Benz aimed to offer "at least one electrified alternative in every model series," signaling the company's commitment to a broad electrification strategy across its entire lineup.<ref name="autoworld">{{cite web |title=Daimler interview: Ola Källenius — 'At least one electrified alternative in every model series' |url=https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/daimler-interview-ola-kallenius-least-one-electrified-alternative-every-model-series/ |publisher=Automotive World |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
His appointment to the Board of Management was interpreted by industry observers as a sign that Källenius was being groomed as a potential successor to Dieter Zetsche, who had served as Chairman of the Board of Management since 2006. In 2019, the succession became official when Källenius was named Chairman of the Board of Management and CEO, effective 22 May 2019.<ref name="cnet" /> Zetsche had led the company through the global financial crisis, the DaimlerChrysler dissolution, and the initial stages of the industry's electrification shift; Källenius inherited a company facing the need for accelerated transformation.


=== Appointment as CEO ===
The transition attracted considerable attention in the international business press, in part because Källenius was the first person without German nationality to lead the company.<ref name="cnet" /> His appointment was viewed as a reflection of the increasingly global nature of the automotive industry and of Mercedes-Benz's own international workforce and customer base.


In May 2019, Källenius succeeded [[Dieter Zetsche]] as Chairman of the Board of Management and CEO of Daimler AG, the parent company of Mercedes-Benz.<ref name="cnet" /> The transition had been widely anticipated, as Källenius had been named as Zetsche's designated successor well in advance. His appointment was notable not only for the change in leadership but also because Källenius was the first non-German-born individual to hold the position in the company's history. This was seen as a significant cultural shift for a corporation deeply embedded in Germany's industrial identity.<ref name="cnet" /><ref name="stuttgarter" />
=== Strategic Transformation and Luxury Focus ===


The handover took place at a time of profound change in the automotive industry, with manufacturers worldwide facing the dual challenges of electrification and digitalization. Källenius assumed leadership of a company that was simultaneously one of the world's most prestigious automotive brands and an organization grappling with the need to restructure for a new era of mobility.
Upon assuming the CEO role, Källenius launched a strategic reorientation of Mercedes-Benz that emphasized a shift toward the luxury and premium segments. The strategy sought to prioritize profitability and brand exclusivity over volume, in contrast to the approach of some competitors who pursued broader market coverage. The company began focusing its resources on higher-margin vehicles and positioning Mercedes-Benz more firmly as a luxury brand rather than a mass-market premium manufacturer.


=== Strategic Direction Under Källenius ===
This luxury-first strategy attracted both praise and scrutiny. By late 2025, ''Automotive News'' reported that pressure was growing on Källenius as some investor representatives described the period as a "last chance" for the CEO to demonstrate that the strategy could deliver sustained results.<ref name="autonews">{{cite news |title=Pressure grows on CEO Ola Kallenius as Mercedes-Benz's luxury strategy stalls |url=https://www.autonews.com/mercedes-benz/ane-mercedes-luxury-strategy-1201/ |work=Automotive News |date=December 1, 2025 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The challenges facing the strategy included intensifying competition from both established rivals and new entrants, particularly Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, as well as macroeconomic headwinds in key markets.


As CEO, Källenius has pursued a strategy centered on several key pillars: a focus on luxury positioning, accelerated electrification, digital transformation, and sustainability. He has steered Mercedes-Benz toward a more focused luxury strategy, seeking to position the brand at the higher end of the market to improve profitability and brand value.
=== Electrification and Sustainability ===


Under Källenius's leadership, the company was restructured and renamed from Daimler AG to Mercedes-Benz Group AG, reflecting a sharpened focus on the Mercedes-Benz brand. The company's truck and bus division was spun off as a separate publicly listed entity, [[Daimler Truck]], in a move that Källenius argued would allow each business to pursue its distinct strategic priorities more effectively.
A central pillar of Källenius's leadership has been the company's push toward electrification. He has overseen the development and launch of Mercedes-Benz's electric vehicle lineup, which by 2025 had made the company the third-largest EV brand by sales in Europe.<ref name="time100" /> The electrification strategy has encompassed not only vehicle powertrains but also efforts to decarbonize the broader value chain, including manufacturing processes and supply chain operations.


Electrification has been a central theme of Källenius's tenure. The company has invested heavily in its EQ lineup of electric vehicles and has articulated ambitions to transition toward an all-electric future, though the specific timeline and pace of this transition have been subject to revision as market conditions have evolved. Mercedes-Benz became the third largest EV brand by sales in Europe.<ref name="time100" /> Källenius has also spoken publicly about the need for broader systemic changes to support the green transition, writing in ''[[The Economist]]'' in July 2025 that "Europe must change if it wants to be green and competitive," addressing issues he characterized as challenges "under the continent's bonnet."<ref name="economist">{{cite news |title=Europe must change if it wants to be green and competitive, says the CEO of Mercedes |url=https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2025/07/15/europe-must-change-if-it-wants-to-be-green-and-competitive-says-the-ceo-of-mercedes |work=The Economist |date=2025-07-15 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
In a 2017 interview, Källenius, then serving as a board member, discussed the company's goal of offering at least one electrified alternative in every model series, signaling the direction the company would take under his subsequent leadership as CEO.<ref name="autoworld">{{cite web |title=Daimler interview: Ola Källenius — at least one electrified alternative every model series |url=https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/daimler-interview-ola-kallenius-least-one-electrified-alternative-every-model-series/ |publisher=Automotive World |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


In a September 2025 interview with [[Morgan Stanley]], Källenius discussed how "engineering excellence and sustainability are driving the brand's transformation," describing the interplay between the company's luxury heritage and its efforts to adapt to changing technological and environmental imperatives.<ref name="morgan">{{cite web |title=Mercedes-Benz: Driving the Future of Luxury and Innovation |url=https://www.morganstanley.com/insights/videos/exceptional-leaders/mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius |publisher=Morgan Stanley |date=2025-09-30 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
In a July 2025 essay published in ''The Economist'', Källenius argued that Europe needed to change its approach if it wanted to remain both environmentally sustainable and economically competitive, addressing what he described as tensions between green policy ambitions and industrial competitiveness on the continent.<ref name="economist">{{cite news |title=Europe must change if it wants to be green and competitive, says the CEO of Mercedes |url=https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2025/07/15/europe-must-change-if-it-wants-to-be-green-and-competitive-says-the-ceo-of-mercedes |work=The Economist |date=July 15, 2025 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== Challenges and Scrutiny ===
In September 2025, Källenius discussed the intersection of engineering excellence and sustainability at a Morgan Stanley event, describing how both priorities were driving the brand's ongoing transformation.<ref name="morganstanley">{{cite web |title=Mercedes-Benz: Driving the Future of Luxury and Innovation |url=https://www.morganstanley.com/insights/videos/exceptional-leaders/mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius |publisher=Morgan Stanley |date=September 30, 2025 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


Källenius's luxury-focused strategy has come under increasing pressure. In December 2025, ''[[Automotive News]]'' reported that some investor representatives characterized the period as a "last chance" for Källenius to demonstrate that the luxury strategy could deliver results, amid concerns that the approach had stalled.<ref name="autonews">{{cite news |title=Pressure grows on CEO Ola Kallenius as Mercedes-Benz's luxury strategy stalls |url=https://www.autonews.com/mercedes-benz/ane-mercedes-luxury-strategy-1201/ |work=Automotive News |date=2025-12-01 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> The challenges have included intensifying competition in the electric vehicle market, particularly from Chinese manufacturers, and questions about whether the premium pricing strategy can be sustained in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.
=== Industry Leadership and ACEA Presidency ===


In early 2026, reports surfaced that the Trump administration had attempted to persuade Mercedes-Benz to relocate its headquarters to the United States. Källenius recounted the overture in an interview with the German media outlet ''The Pioneer'', stating that U.S. Commerce Secretary [[Howard Lutnick]] had made the approach. Källenius declined the proposal, affirming the company's commitment to remaining headquartered in Germany.<ref name="al-com">{{cite news |title=Mercedes-Benz CEO: Trump Administration tried to persuade company to move HQ to US |url=https://www.al.com/business/2026/01/mercedes-benz-ceo-trump-administration-tried-to-persuade-company-to-move-hq-to-us.html |work=AL.com |date=2026-01 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref name="ttnews">{{cite news |title=Mercedes CEO Rebuffed Pitch to Move Headquarters to US |url=https://www.ttnews.com/articles/mercedes-ceo-move-us |work=Transport Topics |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Beyond his role at Mercedes-Benz, Källenius has held leadership positions in the broader European automotive industry. He served as President of the [[European Automobile Manufacturers' Association]] (ACEA), the main trade body representing automobile manufacturers in Europe. In December 2025, the ACEA Board of Directors re-elected Källenius to serve as the association's president for 2026.<ref name="acea">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius re-elected as ACEA President |url=https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/news/acea-president-2026.html |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Group |date=December 4, 2025 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> In this capacity, Källenius has been involved in shaping the industry's collective response to regulatory changes, trade policy, and the transition to zero-emission mobility across the European market.


=== Remuneration ===
=== International Relations and Trade ===


Källenius's compensation as CEO has been the subject of public reporting. According to [[Reuters]], his total remuneration for the 2023 fiscal year nearly doubled compared to the previous year, driven by a significant increase in his bonus payment.<ref name="reuters-pay">{{cite news |title=Mercedes CEO almost doubled 2023 remuneration with big bonus boost |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/mercedes-ceo-almost-doubled-2023-remuneration-with-big-bonus-boost-2024-03-15/ |work=Reuters |date=2024-03-15 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
Källenius has navigated a complex geopolitical landscape during his tenure as CEO. In April 2024, he was among the top German CEOs who joined German Chancellor [[Olaf Scholz]] on an official trip to China, reflecting the importance of the Chinese market to Mercedes-Benz's global business, even amid broader European discussions about economic de-risking from China.<ref name="reuters-china">{{cite news |last= |first= |title=Top German CEOs join Scholz's China trip despite de-risking push |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/top-german-ceos-join-scholzs-china-trip-despite-de-risking-push-2024-04-04/ |work=Reuters |date=April 4, 2024 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


=== International Engagement and Industry Leadership ===
In early 2026, Källenius revealed that the Trump administration in the United States had attempted to persuade Mercedes-Benz to move its headquarters to the U.S. According to reports, Källenius told the German media outlet ''The Pioneer'' that U.S. Commerce Secretary [[Howard Lutnick]] had made the overture.<ref name="al-hq">{{cite news |title=Mercedes-Benz CEO: Trump Administration tried to persuade company to move HQ to US |url=https://www.al.com/business/2026/01/mercedes-benz-ceo-trump-administration-tried-to-persuade-company-to-move-hq-to-us.html |work=AL.com |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref><ref name="ttnews">{{cite news |title=Mercedes CEO Rebuffed Pitch to Move Headquarters to US |url=https://www.ttnews.com/articles/mercedes-ceo-move-us |work=Transport Topics |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Källenius reportedly declined the proposal, keeping the company's headquarters in [[Stuttgart]], Germany.


Källenius has been active in international business diplomacy and industry-level leadership. In April 2024, he was among top German CEOs who joined German Chancellor [[Olaf Scholz]] on a trip to China, reflecting Mercedes-Benz's significant business interests in the Chinese market despite broader European discussions about economic "de-risking" from China.<ref name="reuters-china">{{cite news |title=Top German CEOs join Scholz's China trip despite de-risking push |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/top-german-ceos-join-scholzs-china-trip-despite-de-risking-push-2024-04-04/ |work=Reuters |date=2024-04-04 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
=== Compensation ===


Källenius has also held leadership roles in industry associations. In December 2025, he was re-elected as president of the [[European Automobile Manufacturers' Association]] (ACEA), the key lobbying and representative body for Europe's major car and truck manufacturers. The ACEA board of directors re-elected him to serve as president for 2026, underscoring his prominent role in shaping industry-wide policy positions on issues including emissions regulation, electrification infrastructure, and trade policy.<ref name="acea">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius re-elected as ACEA President |url=https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/news/acea-president-2026.html |publisher=Mercedes-Benz Group |date=2025-12-04 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
As CEO of one of Europe's largest automakers, Källenius's remuneration has been subject to public disclosure. According to [[Reuters]], Källenius nearly doubled his total remuneration for the 2023 fiscal year, driven by a significant bonus increase.<ref name="reuters-pay">{{cite news |title=Mercedes CEO almost doubled 2023 remuneration with big bonus boost |url=https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/mercedes-ceo-almost-doubled-2023-remuneration-with-big-bonus-boost-2024-03-15/ |work=Reuters |date=March 15, 2024 |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref> Executive pay at major German corporations is disclosed under corporate governance regulations and is subject to shareholder approval.


He has also spoken at prominent international forums, including events organized by the [[Economic Club of Washington, D.C.]]<ref name="econclub">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius |url=https://www.economicclub.org/events/ola-k%C3%A4llenius |publisher=Economic Club of Washington, D.C. |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>
In February 2026, a regulatory filing disclosed that Källenius purchased shares of Mercedes-Benz Group as part of the company's Phantom Share Programme, with the transaction valued at approximately €561,385.<ref name="sharepurchase">{{cite web |title=Mercedes-Benz Group AG: Ola Källenius, Purchase of shares due to a Phantom Share Programme |url=https://www.marketscreener.com/news/mercedes-benz-group-ag-ola-kallenius-purchase-of-shares-due-to-a-phantom-share-programme-of-merced-ce7e5ddbd081f325 |publisher=MarketScreener |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


== Personal Life ==
== Personal Life ==


Källenius has three children.<ref name="mb-profile" /> He maintained Swedish citizenship throughout much of his career at Daimler and Mercedes-Benz. In 2023, he obtained German citizenship, becoming a dual national.<ref name="citizenship" /> He has been reported to have an interest in American football.<ref name="stuttgarter" />
Källenius has three children.<ref name="mbheritage" /> He has maintained a relatively private personal life compared to some of his contemporaries in the global automotive industry. He is known to have an interest in American football, a detail noted by German media in profiles published around the time of his appointment as CEO.<ref name="stzeitung" />


Källenius is based in the Stuttgart area of Germany, where Mercedes-Benz Group has its global headquarters. He has maintained a relatively private personal life compared to some of his peers in the global automotive industry.
After living and working in Germany for more than two decades, Källenius obtained German citizenship in 2023, becoming a dual Swedish-German national.<ref name="citizenship" /> He has continued to reside in the Stuttgart metropolitan area, near the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz Group.
 
Källenius has been a public speaker at major international business and economic forums. He appeared at the [[Economic Club of Washington, D.C.]], where he discussed topics related to the automotive industry and global economic trends.<ref name="econclub">{{cite web |title=Ola Källenius |url=https://www.economicclub.org/events/ola-k%C3%A4llenius |publisher=Economic Club of Washington, D.C. |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


== Recognition ==
== Recognition ==


In October 2025, ''Time'' magazine included Källenius in its list of the 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders of 2025. The recognition cited his role as CEO of Mercedes-Benz, noting that the company was the third largest EV brand by sales in Europe and was working to decarbonize its value chain.<ref name="time100" />
In October 2025, ''Time'' magazine named Källenius to its annual list of the '''100 Most Influential Climate Leaders''', recognizing his role in leading Mercedes-Benz's efforts in the transition to electric mobility and the decarbonization of the company's operations. The listing noted that Mercedes-Benz had become the third-largest EV brand by sales in Europe under his leadership and highlighted the company's work to decarbonize its value chain.<ref name="time100" />


His re-election as president of ACEA in December 2025 further affirmed his standing as a leading figure in the European automotive industry, with the trade association's board selecting him to continue in the role for a second term.<ref name="acea" />
Källenius's re-election as President of ACEA for 2026 further underscored his standing within the European automotive industry.<ref name="acea" /> The role placed him as one of the principal voices for European automakers on issues ranging from emissions regulation to trade policy and industrial competitiveness.


Källenius has been featured as a notable alumnus by the Stockholm School of Economics, which has highlighted his career trajectory as an example of the school's graduates achieving positions of global business leadership.<ref name="hhs" />
He has also been featured in the ''Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung'', one of Germany's leading newspapers, and other major international publications as a key figure in the global automotive industry's transformation.<ref name="faz">{{cite news |title=Ola Källenius profile |url=https://www.faz.net/1.4068570 |work=Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung |access-date=2026-02-24}}</ref>


His compensation has reflected his position at the helm of one of the world's largest automakers; Reuters reported that his 2023 remuneration nearly doubled year-over-year owing to a substantial bonus increase.<ref name="reuters-pay" />
The Stockholm School of Economics has featured Källenius among its notable alumni on its "Pathfinders" page, highlighting his career trajectory from the Swedish business school to the leadership of one of the world's most recognized automotive brands.<ref name="hhs" />


== Legacy ==
== Legacy ==


As of early 2026, Källenius remains in his position as Chairman of the Board of Management and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Group, and the full assessment of his legacy is ongoing. Several aspects of his tenure have already shaped the company's trajectory in ways that are likely to be felt for years.
As of early 2026, Källenius's legacy remains a work in progress, shaped by the ongoing transformation of Mercedes-Benz and the broader automotive industry. His tenure as CEO has been defined by the dual challenge of maintaining the profitability and prestige of one of the world's oldest and most recognized automobile brands while simultaneously navigating the transition to electric and sustainable mobility.
 
His appointment as the first non-German-born CEO of what was then Daimler AG represented a cultural milestone for a company that had been led exclusively by German nationals throughout its existence. His subsequent acquisition of German citizenship in 2023 underscored the degree to which his identity had become intertwined with the company and its home country.<ref name="citizenship" />


The restructuring of Daimler into Mercedes-Benz Group AG and the spin-off of the truck division represented one of the most significant organizational changes in the company's recent history. This move was designed to allow the passenger car brand to operate with greater strategic clarity and was a direct product of Källenius's leadership.
The luxury-focused strategy that Källenius introduced represented a deliberate departure from the volume-oriented approach that had characterized parts of the company's previous direction. Whether this strategic pivot proves successful in the long term is a subject of active debate among industry analysts and investors, as reflected in the scrutiny reported by ''Automotive News'' in late 2025.<ref name="autonews" />


His emphasis on electrification and sustainability placed Mercedes-Benz among the established automakers making substantial commitments to the electric vehicle transition, even as the pace and profitability of that transition have been subject to debate. His public advocacy for European policy changes to support competitiveness and the green transition, as articulated in ''The Economist'', positioned him as a voice for industry-level reform beyond the confines of his own company.<ref name="economist" />
Källenius's position as the first non-German-born CEO of Mercedes-Benz marked a milestone in the company's history, reflecting both the internationalization of the German automotive industry and the globalization of corporate leadership more broadly. His subsequent acquisition of German citizenship in 2023 added a further dimension to his dual identity as a leader bridging Scandinavian and German business cultures.


The luxury strategy pursued under Källenius — seeking to push the Mercedes-Benz brand upmarket and prioritize margins over volume — represents a strategic bet whose outcome remains to be determined. The pressures reported in late 2025 suggest that the strategy faces significant headwinds, and its ultimate success or failure will be a defining element of Källenius's legacy as a corporate leader.<ref name="autonews" />
His advocacy for European competitiveness and regulatory reform, expressed through forums such as ''The Economist'' and his role at ACEA, has positioned him as a prominent voice in debates about the future of European industry in an era of rapid technological change and geopolitical uncertainty.<ref name="economist" /><ref name="acea" />


== References ==
== References ==
Line 114: Line 122:
[[Category:Mercedes-Benz people]]
[[Category:Mercedes-Benz people]]
[[Category:Stockholm School of Economics alumni]]
[[Category:Stockholm School of Economics alumni]]
[[Category:Swedish expatriates in Germany]]
[[Category:Swedish emigrants to Germany]]
[[Category:People from Västervik]]
[[Category:People from Västervik]]
[[Category:Chief executive officers]]
[[Category:Chief executive officers]]

Latest revision as of 05:54, 24 February 2026


Ola Källenius
BornSten Ola Källenius
11 6, 1969
BirthplaceVästervik, Sweden
NationalitySwedish, German (since 2023)
OccupationBusiness executive
TitleChairman of the Board of Management and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Group
Known forCEO of Mercedes-Benz Group
EducationStockholm School of Economics
Children3

Sten Ola Källenius (born 11 June 1969) is a Swedish-German business executive who serves as the Chairman of the Board of Management and Chief Executive Officer of Mercedes-Benz Group. He assumed the top leadership position at the German automaker in May 2019, succeeding Dieter Zetsche, who had led the company for over a decade.[1] Källenius was the first non-German national to hold both positions at the helm of the storied Stuttgart-based automaker, a distinction he carried until obtaining German citizenship in 2023.[2] A graduate of the Stockholm School of Economics, Källenius spent the entirety of his career within the Daimler and Mercedes-Benz organization, rising through leadership roles in engine development, motorsport operations, and sales before reaching the top executive post. Under his leadership, the company has undergone a significant strategic transformation focused on luxury positioning and electrification. In 2025, Time magazine named him to its list of the 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders.[3]

Early Life

Ola Källenius was born on 11 June 1969 in Västervik, a coastal town in southeastern Sweden.[4] Details about his family background and upbringing in Sweden remain limited in public records, though he has been noted for retaining a connection to his Swedish roots even as his career took him to Germany for most of his adult life. The Stuttgarter Zeitung reported that Källenius developed interests beyond the automotive world during his formative years, including a notable enthusiasm for American football.[5]

Källenius grew up during a period of transformation in the global automotive industry, as European and Japanese manufacturers competed for dominance in engineering and design innovation. His eventual decision to pursue a career in the automobile sector took him from Sweden to Germany, where he would spend the majority of his professional life.

In 2023, after more than two decades of living and working in Germany, Källenius obtained German citizenship, making him a dual national of both Sweden and Germany.[2] The acquisition of German citizenship was noted in the business press, given that Källenius had previously been recognized as the first non-German to lead Mercedes-Benz (then Daimler AG).

Education

Källenius attended the Stockholm School of Economics (Handelshögskolan i Stockholm), one of the most selective business schools in the Nordic countries.[6] The institution, founded in 1909, has produced numerous leaders in Scandinavian business and finance. Källenius's education at the school provided a foundation in economics and business management that informed his later career in corporate leadership. His profile on the school's alumni page highlights him as one of its notable graduates who went on to lead a major global corporation.[6]

Following his studies at the Stockholm School of Economics, Källenius pursued further academic work in finance and business administration before entering the automotive industry. His academic background distinguished him from several of his predecessors at Mercedes-Benz, many of whom had engineering degrees from German technical universities.

Career

Early Career at Daimler-Benz

Källenius joined what was then Daimler-Benz in the mid-1990s, beginning a career that would span three decades within the same corporate organization. He entered the company during a period of major upheaval, as Daimler-Benz was preparing for its merger with Chrysler in 1998 to form DaimlerChrysler. His early roles within the company exposed him to both the operational and strategic dimensions of the automotive business.[7]

During the early phase of his career, Källenius held positions across multiple areas of the organization, including engine management and vehicle development. This cross-functional experience provided him with a comprehensive understanding of the company's operations, from the factory floor to strategic planning. His progression through the ranks was steady, and he came to be regarded within the company as a candidate for senior leadership relatively early in his tenure.

Mercedes-AMG and Motorsport

A significant chapter in Källenius's career was his involvement with Mercedes-AMG, the high-performance subsidiary of Mercedes-Benz. He served as the head of Mercedes-AMG, overseeing the division responsible for the brand's most powerful and performance-oriented vehicles.[8] Under his leadership, AMG expanded its product portfolio and solidified its reputation within the high-performance luxury segment.

Källenius also played a role in the company's motorsport operations, which have historically served as a testing ground for advanced automotive technologies and a marketing vehicle for the Mercedes-Benz brand. The connection between AMG and the broader Mercedes-Benz motorsport program gave Källenius insight into cutting-edge engineering and the competitive dynamics of global racing.

When Tobias Moers succeeded Källenius as the head of AMG in 2013, Källenius moved on to other senior responsibilities within the Daimler organization.[8]

Board of Management and Rise to CEO

In February 2016, the Supervisory Board of Daimler AG appointed Källenius as a member of the Board of Management, with responsibility for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development.[9] In this role, he oversaw the research and development pipeline for the entire Mercedes-Benz passenger car range, a responsibility that placed him at the center of the company's technology strategy during a period when the industry was rapidly shifting toward electrification, connectivity, and autonomous driving.

His appointment to the Board of Management was interpreted by industry observers as a sign that Källenius was being groomed as a potential successor to Dieter Zetsche, who had served as Chairman of the Board of Management since 2006. In 2019, the succession became official when Källenius was named Chairman of the Board of Management and CEO, effective 22 May 2019.[1] Zetsche had led the company through the global financial crisis, the DaimlerChrysler dissolution, and the initial stages of the industry's electrification shift; Källenius inherited a company facing the need for accelerated transformation.

The transition attracted considerable attention in the international business press, in part because Källenius was the first person without German nationality to lead the company.[1] His appointment was viewed as a reflection of the increasingly global nature of the automotive industry and of Mercedes-Benz's own international workforce and customer base.

Strategic Transformation and Luxury Focus

Upon assuming the CEO role, Källenius launched a strategic reorientation of Mercedes-Benz that emphasized a shift toward the luxury and premium segments. The strategy sought to prioritize profitability and brand exclusivity over volume, in contrast to the approach of some competitors who pursued broader market coverage. The company began focusing its resources on higher-margin vehicles and positioning Mercedes-Benz more firmly as a luxury brand rather than a mass-market premium manufacturer.

This luxury-first strategy attracted both praise and scrutiny. By late 2025, Automotive News reported that pressure was growing on Källenius as some investor representatives described the period as a "last chance" for the CEO to demonstrate that the strategy could deliver sustained results.[10] The challenges facing the strategy included intensifying competition from both established rivals and new entrants, particularly Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers, as well as macroeconomic headwinds in key markets.

Electrification and Sustainability

A central pillar of Källenius's leadership has been the company's push toward electrification. He has overseen the development and launch of Mercedes-Benz's electric vehicle lineup, which by 2025 had made the company the third-largest EV brand by sales in Europe.[3] The electrification strategy has encompassed not only vehicle powertrains but also efforts to decarbonize the broader value chain, including manufacturing processes and supply chain operations.

In a 2017 interview, Källenius, then serving as a board member, discussed the company's goal of offering at least one electrified alternative in every model series, signaling the direction the company would take under his subsequent leadership as CEO.[11]

In a July 2025 essay published in The Economist, Källenius argued that Europe needed to change its approach if it wanted to remain both environmentally sustainable and economically competitive, addressing what he described as tensions between green policy ambitions and industrial competitiveness on the continent.[12]

In September 2025, Källenius discussed the intersection of engineering excellence and sustainability at a Morgan Stanley event, describing how both priorities were driving the brand's ongoing transformation.[13]

Industry Leadership and ACEA Presidency

Beyond his role at Mercedes-Benz, Källenius has held leadership positions in the broader European automotive industry. He served as President of the European Automobile Manufacturers' Association (ACEA), the main trade body representing automobile manufacturers in Europe. In December 2025, the ACEA Board of Directors re-elected Källenius to serve as the association's president for 2026.[14] In this capacity, Källenius has been involved in shaping the industry's collective response to regulatory changes, trade policy, and the transition to zero-emission mobility across the European market.

International Relations and Trade

Källenius has navigated a complex geopolitical landscape during his tenure as CEO. In April 2024, he was among the top German CEOs who joined German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on an official trip to China, reflecting the importance of the Chinese market to Mercedes-Benz's global business, even amid broader European discussions about economic de-risking from China.[15]

In early 2026, Källenius revealed that the Trump administration in the United States had attempted to persuade Mercedes-Benz to move its headquarters to the U.S. According to reports, Källenius told the German media outlet The Pioneer that U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick had made the overture.[16][17] Källenius reportedly declined the proposal, keeping the company's headquarters in Stuttgart, Germany.

Compensation

As CEO of one of Europe's largest automakers, Källenius's remuneration has been subject to public disclosure. According to Reuters, Källenius nearly doubled his total remuneration for the 2023 fiscal year, driven by a significant bonus increase.[18] Executive pay at major German corporations is disclosed under corporate governance regulations and is subject to shareholder approval.

In February 2026, a regulatory filing disclosed that Källenius purchased shares of Mercedes-Benz Group as part of the company's Phantom Share Programme, with the transaction valued at approximately €561,385.[19]

Personal Life

Källenius has three children.[4] He has maintained a relatively private personal life compared to some of his contemporaries in the global automotive industry. He is known to have an interest in American football, a detail noted by German media in profiles published around the time of his appointment as CEO.[5]

After living and working in Germany for more than two decades, Källenius obtained German citizenship in 2023, becoming a dual Swedish-German national.[2] He has continued to reside in the Stuttgart metropolitan area, near the headquarters of Mercedes-Benz Group.

Källenius has been a public speaker at major international business and economic forums. He appeared at the Economic Club of Washington, D.C., where he discussed topics related to the automotive industry and global economic trends.[20]

Recognition

In October 2025, Time magazine named Källenius to its annual list of the 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders, recognizing his role in leading Mercedes-Benz's efforts in the transition to electric mobility and the decarbonization of the company's operations. The listing noted that Mercedes-Benz had become the third-largest EV brand by sales in Europe under his leadership and highlighted the company's work to decarbonize its value chain.[3]

Källenius's re-election as President of ACEA for 2026 further underscored his standing within the European automotive industry.[14] The role placed him as one of the principal voices for European automakers on issues ranging from emissions regulation to trade policy and industrial competitiveness.

He has also been featured in the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, one of Germany's leading newspapers, and other major international publications as a key figure in the global automotive industry's transformation.[21]

The Stockholm School of Economics has featured Källenius among its notable alumni on its "Pathfinders" page, highlighting his career trajectory from the Swedish business school to the leadership of one of the world's most recognized automotive brands.[6]

Legacy

As of early 2026, Källenius's legacy remains a work in progress, shaped by the ongoing transformation of Mercedes-Benz and the broader automotive industry. His tenure as CEO has been defined by the dual challenge of maintaining the profitability and prestige of one of the world's oldest and most recognized automobile brands while simultaneously navigating the transition to electric and sustainable mobility.

The luxury-focused strategy that Källenius introduced represented a deliberate departure from the volume-oriented approach that had characterized parts of the company's previous direction. Whether this strategic pivot proves successful in the long term is a subject of active debate among industry analysts and investors, as reflected in the scrutiny reported by Automotive News in late 2025.[10]

Källenius's position as the first non-German-born CEO of Mercedes-Benz marked a milestone in the company's history, reflecting both the internationalization of the German automotive industry and the globalization of corporate leadership more broadly. His subsequent acquisition of German citizenship in 2023 added a further dimension to his dual identity as a leader bridging Scandinavian and German business cultures.

His advocacy for European competitiveness and regulatory reform, expressed through forums such as The Economist and his role at ACEA, has positioned him as a prominent voice in debates about the future of European industry in an era of rapid technological change and geopolitical uncertainty.[12][14]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 "Ola Kallenius to succeed Dieter Zetsche as Daimler, Mercedes-Benz CEO".CNET Roadshow.https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/dieter-zetsche-daimler-mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "Mercedes-boss Ola Källenius now also a German citizen".MarketScreener.https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/MERCEDES-BENZ-GROUP-AG-436541/news/Mercedes-boss-Ola-Kallenius-now-also-a-German-citizen-44302487/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Ola Källenius: The 100 Most Influential Climate Leaders of 2025".Time.October 30, 2025.https://time.com/collections/time-100-climate-2025/7326573/ola-kallenius/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 "Ola Källenius".Mercedes-Benz Group.https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/tradition/ceos/kaellenius.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 "Designierter Daimler-Vorstandschef: Ola Källenius — ein Faible für American Football".Stuttgarter Zeitung.https://www.stuttgarter-zeitung.de/inhalt.designierter-daimler-vorstandschef-ola-kaellenius-ein-faible-fuer-american-football.34ab0b09-5f20-4dd7-8c41-9a85019aee74.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 "Ola Källenius — Pathfinders".Stockholm School of Economics.https://www.hhs.se/en/outreach/alumni/pathfinders/ola-kallenius/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  7. ↑ "Ola Källenius — Board of Management".Daimler AG.https://www.daimler.com/company/corporate-governance/board-of-management/kaellenius/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "Tobias Moers wird neuer AMG-Chef".Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog.September 2013.https://blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com/2013/09/tobias-moers-wird-neuer-amg-chef/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  9. ↑ "Aufsichtsrat bestellt Ola Källenius als Vorstand für Konzernforschung und Mercedes-Benz Cars Entwicklung".Mercedes-Benz Passion Blog.February 2016.https://blog.mercedes-benz-passion.com/2016/02/aufsichtsrat-bestellt-ola-kaellenius-als-vorstand-fuer-konzernforschung-und-mercedes-benz-cars-entwicklung/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 "Pressure grows on CEO Ola Kallenius as Mercedes-Benz's luxury strategy stalls".Automotive News.December 1, 2025.https://www.autonews.com/mercedes-benz/ane-mercedes-luxury-strategy-1201/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  11. ↑ "Daimler interview: Ola Källenius — at least one electrified alternative every model series".Automotive World.https://www.automotiveworld.com/news-releases/daimler-interview-ola-kallenius-least-one-electrified-alternative-every-model-series/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 "Europe must change if it wants to be green and competitive, says the CEO of Mercedes".The Economist.July 15, 2025.https://www.economist.com/by-invitation/2025/07/15/europe-must-change-if-it-wants-to-be-green-and-competitive-says-the-ceo-of-mercedes.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  13. ↑ "Mercedes-Benz: Driving the Future of Luxury and Innovation".Morgan Stanley.September 30, 2025.https://www.morganstanley.com/insights/videos/exceptional-leaders/mercedes-benz-ceo-ola-kallenius.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 14.2 "Ola Källenius re-elected as ACEA President".Mercedes-Benz Group.December 4, 2025.https://group.mercedes-benz.com/company/news/acea-president-2026.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  15. ↑ "Top German CEOs join Scholz's China trip despite de-risking push".Reuters.April 4, 2024.https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/top-german-ceos-join-scholzs-china-trip-despite-de-risking-push-2024-04-04/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  16. ↑ "Mercedes-Benz CEO: Trump Administration tried to persuade company to move HQ to US".AL.com.https://www.al.com/business/2026/01/mercedes-benz-ceo-trump-administration-tried-to-persuade-company-to-move-hq-to-us.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  17. ↑ "Mercedes CEO Rebuffed Pitch to Move Headquarters to US".Transport Topics.https://www.ttnews.com/articles/mercedes-ceo-move-us.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  18. ↑ "Mercedes CEO almost doubled 2023 remuneration with big bonus boost".Reuters.March 15, 2024.https://www.reuters.com/business/autos-transportation/mercedes-ceo-almost-doubled-2023-remuneration-with-big-bonus-boost-2024-03-15/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  19. ↑ "Mercedes-Benz Group AG: Ola Källenius, Purchase of shares due to a Phantom Share Programme".MarketScreener.https://www.marketscreener.com/news/mercedes-benz-group-ag-ola-kallenius-purchase-of-shares-due-to-a-phantom-share-programme-of-merced-ce7e5ddbd081f325.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  20. ↑ "Ola Källenius".Economic Club of Washington, D.C..https://www.economicclub.org/events/ola-k%C3%A4llenius.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  21. ↑ "Ola Källenius profile".Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung.https://www.faz.net/1.4068570.Retrieved 2026-02-24.

Retrieved from "https://biography.wiki/index.php?title=Ola_Källenius&oldid=638"