New management structure at Audi Middle East

Enrico Atanasio, 57 years old, has been appointed as Director of Audi Middle East based in Dubai. With over 30 years of global experience within the automotive industry, he joins the regional subsidiary following his role as the Marketing and Network Development Director of Audi Saudi Arabia. Enrico previously headed the Fiat Group in India and has extensive international working experience. In his new role, he will be responsible for the Audi brand, and will directly head the Audi business in the region for 11 Middle East countries.

On joining Audi Middle East, Enrico Atanasio commented: "I am hugely excited to join the Audi team in Dubai. I believe in the potential of Audi in the region and I have the firm objective to make Audi a major player here, in collaboration with our dealers." 

Christian Sömmer, 34 years old, is appointed Sales Director for the region. Having worked in Audi Middle East for the past 6 years in both sales management and network development roles, Christian comes with strong experience. His most recent responsibility has been as Director of Network Development within AVME FZE. His career began with Daimler AG in international sales planning and in 2009, he joined Audi holding roles in both sales and dealer development.

Talking about his new appointment, Christian stated: “As Sales Director, I hope my knowledge of the region, and experience with our dealer partners and our customers will be key to our success in driving the Audi business forward for the future.”   

As of 1st October, Jan-Hendrik Schmitt (36) will become the Head of Strategy and Business Development for AVME FZE and will report to Benoit Tiers. Following his experience as Audi Sales Director, Schmitt will now be in charge of strategic projects that will reinforce the business for both Volkswagen and Audi brands in the region.