Mercedes-Benz Cars ME restructures leadership to strengthen marketing

Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East (MBCME) has restructured its leadership bench in an effort to emphasise the region’s strategic importance as a hub for Mercedes-Benz General Distributor (MBGD) markets across Central Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Southeast Asia.

This transition amplifies MBGD’s global expansion by streamlining operations across more than 100 markets under a unified ecosystem, while fostering collaboration that accelerates innovation to deliver an exceptional customer experience and brand excellence across the network.

Led by Michael Stroband, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East and Head of MBGD, the leadership team will drive this transformation forward with sharper alignment, cross-market synergy, and the strength of a diverse and experienced talent pool that Mercedes-Benz proudly cultivates.

This transition includes the appointment of Bonnie Al-Fakhri as Head of Marketing & Communications.

With over 10 years at Mercedes-Benz, the company claims Al-Fakhri brings a people-centric approach to brand development and customer engagement.

She was previously Head of HR at MBCME, where she led the MBGD transformation programs that laid a strong foundation for customer-first strategies. Her experience and deep understanding of cross-regional dynamics promises to elevate collaboration across markets, sharpen strategic focus, and drive MBGD’s global marketing evolution while reinforcing global brand alignment, the company claims.

Furthermore, as part of this restructure, Pablo Souto, the current Director of Network Development & Online-to-Offline, will additionally oversee marketing operations, effective June 1, 2025 to improve the customer journey by driving cohesive, data-driven brand experiences across both physical and digital touchpoints.

“This leadership transition underscores our commitment to expanding MBGD’s global influence while refining the luxury experience through innovation,” said Michael Stroband, CEO of Mercedes-Benz Cars Middle East. “With Dubai serving as a global hub, we are proud to drive the future of mobility and redefine how the Mercedes-Benz brand is experienced across our international distributor network.

Finally, Karsten Klauenberg, has been newly appointed as Director of Customer Services and Retail Training at MBGD. He will steer the Customer Services business for all GDs globally. Karsten’s experience spans the Service and Parts Business and his aim in his new role is to keep Mercedes-Benz Service at the highest standards.