Volkswagen Group appoints Andreas Mindt as new Head of Group Design, replacing Michael Mauer
Volkswagen Group has named Andreas Mindt as its new Head of Group Design, succeeding Michael Mauer who shaped an era at Porsche.
1996
2014
2021
What Happened
Volkswagen Group CEO Oliver Blume announced the appointment of Andreas Mindt as the new Head of Group Design, effective immediately. Mindt replaces Michael Mauer, who held the role since January 2023 while also serving as Porsche's design chief. Mauer will step down from the group position but remain at Porsche.
“I would like to warmly thank Michael Mauer for his outstanding work and for the close and collaborative working relationship over the years. He shaped an era at Porsche. As Head of Group Design he also established a design philosophy across all brands that provides orientation and ensures recognition – with clearly defined brand and product identities.”
- Started at Volkswagen Group in 1996 after graduating from Pforzheim University School of Design.
- Worked on the first-generation Tiguan and exterior design of the Golf 7.
- From 2014 to 2021, led realignment of Audi's exterior design across models from A1 to e-tron GT and Q3 to Q8.
- As Director of Bentley Design from 2021, defined Bentley's new design language unveiled with the Bentley Batur.
- Has been Head of Design at Volkswagen Passenger Cars since February 2023.
Michael Mauer joined Porsche in 2004 as its fourth Head of Design, after stints at Mercedes, Smart, and Saab. He oversaw the design of the revised Cayenne, new Panamera, and the 918 Spyder, and transferred Porsche's design into the electric age. Blume praised Mauer for sharpening brand identities across the group.
Why this matters
Design leadership influences the look and identity of all Volkswagen brands, from VW to Porsche, and this change signals a generational shift.
Terms in This Story
- design language
- A consistent visual style and set of design principles used across a brand's products to create a recognizable identity.
- DNA
- In automotive context, the core identity and unique characteristics that define a brand's look and feel.
Summarised from the linked release; details can be imperfect — always verify against the original source.