Donkervoort founder Joop Donkervoort steps down, hands reins to son Denis
Joop Donkervoort, founder of Dutch sports car maker Donkervoort Automobielen, is stepping down after 43 years, passing daily management to his son Denis.
43 years
almost 1,500
approximately 1,700
What Happened
Joop Donkervoort, 71, founded the company in 1978 and built it into a world-renowned sports car brand. He will hand over daily management to his son, Denis, effective January 1, 2021, after a 13-year succession plan. Joop will remain on the Advisory Board and continue consulting on projects both inside and outside the company.
“My father has achieved astonishing things over a lifetime here and the Donkervoort extended family of staff and owners will always be grateful for his vision, tenacity and belief that our cars should create emotions.”
Founded Donkervoort Automobielen in Tienhoven, Netherlands
Began 13-year succession plan to groom son Denis
Steps down as President and Managing Director
Why this matters
The succession plan ensures continuity for the niche automaker as it continues to innovate with carbon-fiber technology and new models.
Terms in This Story
- EX-CORE
- A patented carbon-fiber process developed by Donkervoort for lightweight construction.
- Advisory Board
- A group of experts that provides guidance to a company's management.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.