MBSA is preparing to welcome its first South African-born Chief Executive Officer.

As of the 1st of March, the role of CEO of MBSA will be taken over by Mr Arno van der Merwe, when current CEO Dr Martin Zimmermann returns to DAG Stuttgart offices as Head of Global Service and Parts for the Mercedes-Benz and smart brands.

Van der Merwe will retain his current role as Vice President Manufacturing at the MBSA production plant, in addition to his responsibilities as CEO of the company. He was only the second South African to head up the internationally award-winning plant in East London in 2012, and will be the first CEO of South African birth to lead MBSA.

Outgoing MBSA CEO Martin Zimmermann says: “I am proud of Arno taking over from me. He has been groomed systematically during the past years to take over this senior leadership role, and his experience, passion, dedication and people-oriented leadership style will allow MBSA to continue its drive towards becoming the undisputed leader in all segments where it competes, as well as to remain a passionate contributor to the socio-economic development and transformation of South Africa.”