Frank-Steffen Walliser will assume the role of chairman and CEO at Bentley on July 1, following Adrian Hallmark’s departure in March. Walliser is transitioning from Porsche to Bentley, bringing experience in engineering and luxury automotive development.
Audi CEO Gernot Döllner expressed confidence in Walliser’s capabilities: “With his distinct technological expertise and experience in the luxury segment, Walliser will successfully lead Bentley into the electrified future.”
Walliser’s background includes a degree in mechanical engineering with a focus on combustion engines and technology management. He joined Porsche in 1995 and has held various leadership roles over his tenure. Notably, he was the overall project leader for the development of the Porsche 918 Spyder and later served as head of motorsport. Since 2019 he has managed the 911 and 718 product lines; in 2022 he began overseeing vehicle development at Porsche.
Regarding his new position at Bentley, Walliser said, “I am approaching this job with great respect and looking forward to working with the team in Crewe, who have shown impressive performance. The continuing transformation of the automotive industry will be a major task for Bentley, a task that I am happy to take on with the team. I am convinced Bentley will continue to set standards in the luxury segment in the future.”